The Aramaic word nᵉshar, represented by H5403, is the term for an eagle. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This word is used to describe features of both visionary beasts and a man brought into a state of wildness, corresponding to the Hebrew word for eagle.
Both occurrences of H5403 are found in the book of Daniel. In a prophetic vision, the first beast is depicted as being like a lion but possessing eagle's wings, which are then plucked off Daniel 7:4. The word is also used to describe the state of King Nebuchadnezzar during his period of madness, where his hair grew to be like eagles' feathers Daniel 4:33.
Several related words help contextualize the imagery associated with H5403:
- H1611 gaph (a wing): This word is used for the "eagle's wings" on the lion-like beast in Daniel's vision, symbolizing its initial power before being plucked Daniel 7:4.
- H6853 tsᵉphar (a bird): This term is used in parallel with H5403 to describe Nebuchadnezzar's transformation, noting his nails grew "like birds' claws" Daniel 4:33.
The use of H5403 in Daniel carries significant symbolic weight.
- Symbol of Power: In Daniel's vision, the eagle's wings attached to a lion create an image of a powerful and swift kingdom. The subsequent plucking of these wings signifies a loss of that power and status Daniel 7:4.
- Marker of Judgment: For Nebuchadnezzar, his hair growing like eagles' feathers is part of his divine judgment, reducing him from a proud king to a wild creature and illustrating a profound humbling Daniel 4:33.
In summary, H5403 provides a potent symbol within the book of Daniel. While its literal meaning is eagle, its two appearances use this imagery to convey contrasting concepts: the formidable power of a kingdom in a prophetic vision, and the abject, animal-like state of a humbled king. It demonstrates how a natural image can be employed to represent both supreme authority and its complete loss.
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