The Aramaic word ʻivyâʼ, represented by H5758, defines perverseness or iniquity. Derived from a root corresponding to עָוָה, it points to a moral distortion or corruption. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verses in the entire Bible.
The sole use of H5758 occurs in the counsel Daniel gives to a king. In Daniel 4:27, Daniel advises the ruler to "break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor." Here, iniquities H5758 are presented alongside sins as moral failings that must be decisively abandoned for a ruler to find a "lengthening of thy tranquillity."
Several related Aramaic words from its single context in Daniel 4:27 illuminate its meaning:
- H2408 chăṭîy (sin): Defined as "an offence; sin," this word is used in direct parallel with H5758, indicating two facets of wrongdoing that must be addressed Daniel 4:27.
- H6562 pᵉraq (break off): Meaning "to discontinue; break off," this is the specific action verb commanded in relation to iniquities, emphasizing a need for a clean and decisive separation from the practice Daniel 4:27.
- H6665 tsidqâh (righteousness): Defined as "beneficence; righteousness," this is presented as the direct antidote to sin, just as mercy is the remedy for iniquity Daniel 4:27.
- H2604 chănan (shew mercy): Meaning "to favor or (causatively) to entreat; shew mercy, make supplication," this is the specific positive action that counteracts and redeems iniquity Daniel 4:27.
The theological significance of H5758, though based on a single verse, is potent and clear.
- A Call to Active Repentance: The context of Daniel 4:27 frames iniquity not as an inescapable stain but as a behavior that can and must be consciously broken off.
- Perverseness vs. Mercy: The verse establishes a sharp contrast, positioning the state of iniquity H5758 as the direct opposite of "shewing mercy to the poor" (H2604, H6033). This implies that iniquity involves a lack of compassion and justice.
- Righteousness as the Remedy: The counsel demonstrates that true repentance involves more than merely stopping wicked behavior; it requires actively replacing it with positive acts of righteousness and mercy.
In summary, H5758 provides a focused Aramaic term for iniquity as a state of moral perverseness. Its solitary appearance in scripture is a powerful one, embedded within a direct call for a king to repent. The passage in Daniel 4:27 uses this word to illustrate that turning from iniquity requires a deliberate choice to "break off" from it and embrace a life of active righteousness and mercy toward others.
TRV