(Aramaic) corresponding to סוֹף; {a termination}; end.
Transliteration:çôwph
Pronunciation:sofe
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word `{{H5491}}` (çôwph) carries the fundamental meaning of "end" or "termination." As indicated by its base definition, it corresponds directly to the Hebrew `{{H5490}}`, sharing a common semantic core. Its range encompasses the conclusion of a temporal period, the final point in a sequence, or the ultimate outcome of an event or matter. It can denote a literal cessation, a boundary, or the culmination of a process. The emphasis is on finality, whether in terms of time, space, or result.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, `{{H5491}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Book of Daniel. Its usage consistently points to a point of conclusion or ultimate state:
* **[[Daniel 4:8]]**: "at the last" (literally, "at the end"). Here, çôwph marks the final arrival of Daniel after other wise men had failed to interpret Nebuchadnezzar's dream. It signifies the culmination of a sequence of events or attempts.
* **[[Daniel 4:34]]**: "And at the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up mine eyes unto heaven..." This refers to the divinely appointed conclusion of Nebuchadnezzar's period of madness and humiliation. It highlights God's sovereignty over the duration of human experience and judgment.
* **[[Daniel 6:26]]**: "...his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end." In this context, çôwph is used in the negative ("unto no end") to emphasize the eternal and unending nature of God's kingdom and dominion. It contrasts with the finite reigns of earthly kings.
* **[[Daniel 7:26]]**: "...to consume and to destroy it unto the end." This refers to the complete and utter destruction of the fourth beast's dominion. Here, çôwph denotes a finality of judgment, a thorough and absolute termination.
* **[[Daniel 7:28]]**: "Hitherto is the end of the matter." Daniel uses çôwph to mark the conclusion of his vision and the preceding narrative. It signifies the point where the revelation ceased, though its implications remain profound.
Across these occurrences, `{{H5491}}` consistently functions to denote a point of finality, whether temporal, sequential, or descriptive of complete cessation or perpetuity.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct related word is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H5490}}` (çôwph), which also means "end" or "conclusion." This intrinsic connection underscores the shared concept of ultimate termination or outcome. Other related concepts in biblical Hebrew that convey aspects of "end" or "completion" include:
* `{{H7093}}` (qetseh): often meaning "end," "border," or "extremity."
* `{{H3617}}` (kalah): meaning "completion," "consumption," or "utter destruction."
* `{{H319}}` (acharith): referring to the "latter end" or "outcome," often with an eschatological nuance.
While not direct cognates, these terms collectively form a semantic field around the ideas of conclusion, finality, and ultimate destiny.
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of `{{H5491}}` in Daniel carry significant theological weight:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over Time and History:** The repeated emphasis on "the end of days" ([[Daniel 4:34]]) or the "end of the matter" ([[Daniel 7:28]]) highlights God's absolute control over the unfolding of human events and the timing of His divine interventions. No earthly power or period of trial is without a divinely appointed conclusion.
2. **Eschatological Certainty:** In a book rich with prophecy, `{{H5491}}` points to the definitive conclusion of earthly kingdoms and the certain establishment of God's eternal dominion. The "end" of the beast's power ([[Daniel 7:26]]) assures believers of the ultimate triumph of righteousness and the thoroughness of divine judgment against evil.
3. **God's Unending Kingdom:** The negation of çôwph in [[Daniel 6:26]] to describe God's kingdom ("unto the end" implying no end) powerfully contrasts the finite nature of human empires with the eternal, indestructible nature of God's reign. This offers profound hope and stability amidst the rise and fall of earthly powers.
4. **Finality of Judgment:** The use of çôwph in the context of destroying the beast's dominion ([[Daniel 7:26]]) underscores the absolute and irreversible nature of God's judgment against rebellion and evil.
### Summary
The Aramaic word `{{H5491}}` (çôwph) precisely conveys the concept of "end" or "termination." Found exclusively in the prophetic Book of Daniel, its usage consistently points to a divinely ordained conclusion, whether of a temporal period, a sequence of events, or the ultimate destiny of kingdoms. It underscores God's sovereign control over time and history, the certain end of human rebellion, and the eternal, unending nature of His own kingdom. Thus, çôwph is a concise yet powerful term that reinforces the biblical narrative of divine purpose reaching its ultimate, predetermined conclusion.
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