### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çᵉthar**, represented by `{{H5642}}`, carries a dual meaning of concealment and destruction. Based on the definition "to conceal; figuratively, to demolish; destroy, secret thing," this word appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. Its usage highlights two distinct aspects of divine power: God's ability to know what is hidden and His authority to bring about destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two biblical occurrences of `{{H5642}}` showcase its different applications. In Daniel, it refers to knowledge that is hidden from man. God is described as the one who "revealeth the deep and **secret things**" [[Daniel 2:22]], placing the word in the context of divine revelation. In contrast, in Ezra, the word signifies physical destruction. It describes the consequence of provoking God, stating that Nebuchadnezzar " **destroyed** this house" after the fathers had provoked God to wrath [[Ezra 5:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the meanings of `{{H5642}}`:
* `{{H1541}}` **gᵉlâh** (reveal, carry away): This word appears in both verses where `{{H5642}}` is found. It acts as a direct counterpart in [[Daniel 2:22]], where God can "reveal" what is secret. In [[Ezra 5:12]], it describes the consequence alongside the destruction, where the people were "carried away" into Babylon.
* `{{H5994}}` **ʻămîyq** (deep): Used in direct partnership with `{{H5642}}` in [[Daniel 2:22]] to describe "the **deep** and secret things" that God reveals. It emphasizes the profound and unsearchable nature of the secrets that are hidden.
* `{{H7265}}` **rᵉgaz** (to provoke unto wrath): This term supplies the reason for the destruction mentioned in [[Ezra 5:12]]. The house was destroyed because the fathers had "provoked the God of heaven unto wrath," directly linking the action of `{{H5642}}` to divine judgment.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5642}}` is seen in its contrasting applications, highlighting God's sovereignty over both knowledge and judgment.
* **Divine Omniscience:** In its first sense, the word points to matters that are secret and hidden from human understanding. God alone knows these "secret things" [[Daniel 2:22]], distinguishing His knowledge from mortal limits. He reveals what is in the "darkness" `{{H2816}}` because "light" `{{H5094}}` dwells with Him.
* **Divine Judgment:** In its second sense, the word is used for destruction as a direct result of disobedience. The demolition of the temple was not a random act but a consequence after the people "provoked" `{{H7265}}` God, who then "gave" `{{H3052}}` them into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar [[Ezra 5:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5642}}` is a potent word that, despite its infrequent use, encapsulates two significant themes. It demonstrates a sharp contrast between what is concealed from humanity and what is enacted by divine authority. Whether referring to the **secret things** only God can reveal or the decisive act to **destroy** as a form of judgment, **çᵉthar** underscores a God who is sovereign over both the unseen and the seen.
TRV