(Aramaic) from a root corresponding to נָצַב; fixedness, i.e. firmness; strength.
Transliteration:nitsbâh
Pronunciation:nits-baw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic noun nitsbâh (`{{H5326}}`) derives from a root corresponding to the Hebrew nāṣav (`{{H5324}}`), which primarily signifies "to stand," "to take one's stand," or "to set up." Consequently, nitsbâh encapsulates the semantic range of "fixedness," "firmness," and "strength." It denotes a state of being firmly established, unmoving, and possessing inherent power or might. The word conveys an idea of formidable, unyielding stability and robust capability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term nitsbâh (`{{H5326}}`) appears only once in the biblical text, specifically in the book of Daniel:
* **[[Daniel 7:7]]**: "After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, terrifying and dreadful and exceedingly strong [וְחֵילָהּ יַתִּירָה הִיא, lit. 'and its strength was exceedingly firm/great']. It had great iron teeth; it devoured and broke in pieces and stamped what was left with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns."
In this sole occurrence, nitsbâh is part of the phrase describing the fourth beast, often translated as "exceedingly strong" or "great strength." The Aramaic וְחֵילָהּ יַתִּירָה הִיא (v'cheilah yattira hi) literally means "and its strength was exceedingly firm/great." The word nitsbâh here functions as an intensifier, emphasizing the immense, unyielding, and terrifying power of this final, oppressive kingdom. It highlights its destructive capacity and its formidable, unshakeable nature in its own sphere. The context is apocalyptic vision, portraying the strength of a worldly empire that opposes God's purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the Hebrew verb nāṣav (`{{H5324}}`), from which nitsbâh (`{{H5326}}`) is derived. Nāṣav carries the core meaning of "to stand," "to take one's stand," or "to be set up." This connection reinforces the notion of nitsbâh as a fixed, established, and therefore powerful entity. Concepts related to nitsbâh include:
* **Strength/Might**: ḥayil (`{{H2428}}`, Hebrew; ḥayl Aramaic) often translated as strength, valor, or army.
* **Firmness/Stability**: The idea of being unmoving or fixed, contrasting with instability or weakness.
* **Dominion/Power**: The ability to exert control and overcome opposition.
* **Terror/Dread**: As seen in [[Daniel 7:7]], the strength described by nitsbâh evokes fear due to its destructive potential.
### Theological Significance
While nitsbâh is used to describe the formidable strength of a human kingdom in [[Daniel 7:7]], its theological significance lies in the contrast it presents. The "exceedingly strong" nature of the fourth beast underscores the immense power that earthly, oppressive forces can wield. However, within the broader context of Daniel, this very strength is ultimately subject to the sovereign power of God. The beast's nitsbâh is terrifying and destructive, but it is not eternal or ultimate. God's kingdom, by contrast, is described as an eternal kingdom that will never be destroyed ([[Daniel 2:44]], [[Daniel 7:14]], [[Daniel 7:27]]).
Thus, nitsbâh serves to magnify the perceived invincibility of human empires, thereby highlighting the even greater, absolute, and enduring power of the Divine. It reminds the reader that even the most terrifying and firmly established earthly powers are temporary and will be overthrown by God's eternal dominion. The word, therefore, implicitly points to the contrast between created strength and uncreated might, between transient power and everlasting sovereignty.
### Summary
Nitsbâh (`{{H5326}}`) is an Aramaic noun signifying "fixedness," "firmness," and "strength," derived from the root meaning "to stand" or "to set up." Its singular occurrence in [[Daniel 7:7]] describes the "exceedingly strong" nature of the terrifying fourth beast, emphasizing its formidable and unyielding power. The word highlights the destructive might of oppressive earthly kingdoms. Theologically, nitsbâh serves to underscore the perceived invincibility of human power, which, despite its terrifying nature, is ultimately finite and subject to the eternal and absolute sovereignty of God, whose kingdom alone possesses true and everlasting strength.
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