### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʻiddân**, represented by `{{H5732}}`, refers to a set **time** or, technically, a year. It appears 13 times across 11 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used to denote specific, appointed periods rather than a general sense of time, often carrying significant prophetic or judicial weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H5732}}` is primarily used in the book of Daniel to frame periods of divine action and human history. God is described as the one who "changeth the **times**" [[Daniel 2:21]], establishing his sovereignty over world events. The word marks specific durations of judgment, such as the "seven **times**" appointed to pass over Nebuchadnezzar until he acknowledged God's rule ([[Daniel 4:16]], 4:25, 4:32). It also functions as a unit in prophetic timelines, notably in the phrase "a **time** and **times** and the dividing of **time**," which delineates a period of tribulation [[Daniel 7:25]]. Elsewhere, it refers to a specific moment for action, such as when Nebuchadnezzar commands worship at a particular **time** ([[Daniel 3:5]], 3:15).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning and application of `{{H5732}}`:
* `{{H2166}}` **zᵉmân** (an appointed occasion): This word for **season** or **time** is often used in parallel with `ʻiddân`. For example, God "changeth the times `{{H5732}}` and the **seasons** `{{H2166}}`" [[Daniel 2:21]], and the lives of the beasts were prolonged for a **season** and a **time** [[Daniel 7:12]].
* `{{H8133}}` **shᵉnâʼ** (to alter): This verb is frequently used to describe the action of changing an `ʻiddân`. God is the one who **changeth** the times [[Daniel 2:21]], while an opposing figure will think to **change** times and laws [[Daniel 7:25]].
* `{{H2499}}` **chălaph** (to pass on (of time)): This word describes the progression of an `ʻiddân`. It is used repeatedly in the account of Nebuchadnezzar, where it is decreed that "seven times `{{H5732}}` shall **pass** over" him ([[Daniel 4:16]], 4:23).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5732}}` is centered on God's sovereign control over history and prophecy.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word underscores that God is the ultimate authority over history, who "changeth the **times** and the seasons" and removes and sets up kings according to His will [[Daniel 2:21]].
* **Appointed Judgment:** `ʻiddân` is used to measure out specific periods of divine judgment. The "seven **times**" that pass over Nebuchadnezzar serve as a defined duration for humbling a prideful king, demonstrating that God sets the limits on human rebellion ([[Daniel 4:25]], 4:32).
* **Prophetic Measurement:** The term is a key component in prophetic timelines. The expression "a **time** and **times** and the dividing of **time**" establishes a specific, measured period during which the saints of the Most High will endure hardship before God's ultimate kingdom is established [[Daniel 7:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5732}}` **ʻiddân** is a crucial term for understanding divinely appointed periods in the book of Daniel. It moves beyond the general concept of time to signify specific durations, prophetic years, and decisive moments that are under God's absolute control. Whether measuring a king's judgment or a prophetic era, `ʻiddân` reveals that history unfolds according to a divine timetable.
TRV