(Aramaic) corresponding to עֶלְיוֹן; the Supreme; Most high.
Transliteration:ʻelyôwn
Pronunciation:el-yone'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term H5946 (עֶלְיוֹן, ʻelyôwn) directly corresponds to its more frequently occurring Hebrew counterpart, H5945 (עֶלְיוֹן, ʻelyôn). Both derive from a root signifying "to go up" or "ascend," conveying the sense of that which is "highest," "uppermost," or "exalted." When applied to God, as it exclusively is in the biblical text, ʻelyôwn functions as a profound divine epithet. It denotes His supreme sovereignty, His absolute transcendence above all creation, and His unparalleled preeminence over every earthly and spiritual power. The term encapsulates the idea of God as the ultimate authority, the one who is literally "above all."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, H5946 is found primarily in the Aramaic sections of the Book of Daniel, with one notable occurrence in Ezra. Its usage consistently highlights the supreme authority and power of God, often in contrast to the transient power of human kings.
In Daniel, the title ʻelyôwn is pivotal in demonstrating God's dominion over the kingdoms of the world:
* [[Daniel 3:26]]: King Nebuchadnezzar, after witnessing the miraculous preservation of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace, addresses them as "servants of the Most High God," acknowledging a power superior to his own.
* [[Daniel 4:2]], [[Daniel 4:17]], [[Daniel 4:24]], [[Daniel 4:25]], [[Daniel 4:32]], [[Daniel 4:34]]: The narrative of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling experience repeatedly emphasizes that "the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of mortals and gives them to whomever he wishes" ([[Daniel 4:17]]). This serves as a powerful theological statement about divine control over human history and political power.
* [[Daniel 5:18]], [[Daniel 5:21]]: During Belshazzar's feast, Daniel reminds the king of Nebuchadnezzar's lesson, reiterating that it was the "Most High God" who had granted and could remove royal authority.
* [[Daniel 7:18]], [[Daniel 7:22]], [[Daniel 7:25]], [[Daniel 7:27]]: In Daniel's vision of the four beasts and the Ancient of Days, the term is used in reference to "the saints of the Most High" who will ultimately receive and possess the eternal kingdom, signifying God's ultimate triumph and the destiny of His people.
In Ezra:
* [[Ezra 5:14]]: The decree of Cyrus regarding the return of the temple vessels specifies their return to "the house of the Most High God," indicating recognition of the God of Israel even by a Persian king.
Across these contexts, H5946 functions to underscore God's unparalleled status as the supreme ruler, whose authority transcends all earthly powers and whose will ultimately prevails.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic H5946 is inextricably linked to its Hebrew cognate H5945 (עֶלְיוֹן, ʻelyôn), which carries the identical meaning and theological weight, appearing far more frequently throughout the Hebrew Bible (e.g., in [[Genesis 14:18]] where Melchizedek is priest of "God Most High," or in numerous Psalms like [[Psalm 91:1]] where God is a refuge).
Other divine titles and concepts that resonate with the meaning of ʻelyôwn include:
* `{{H410}}` (אֵל, ʼēl): A general term for God, often used in combination with other attributes.
* `{{H3068}}` (יְהוָה, YHWH): The personal covenant name of God, emphasizing His self-existence and faithfulness.
* `{{H430}}` (אֱלֹהִים, ʼĕlōhîm): The plural form of God, often highlighting His majesty and power.
* `{{H7706}}` (שַׁדַּי, šadday): "Almighty," emphasizing God's omnipotence and sufficiency.
* **Sovereignty:** The absolute rule and control of God over all creation and history.
* **Transcendence:** God's existence beyond and above the created order, distinct from and superior to all things.
* **Exaltation:** God's supreme position and honor.
* **Divine Kingship:** The concept of God as the ultimate King, ruling over all.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H5946 (ʻelyôwn) is profound, centralizing on the absolute supremacy of God.
1. **Divine Sovereignty:** The most prominent theme communicated by ʻelyôwn is God's ultimate sovereignty. He is not merely a god, but the *Most High* God, whose dominion extends over all nations, kings, and historical events. This is powerfully illustrated in Daniel, where pagan monarchs are compelled to acknowledge His supreme authority, often against their own will or understanding.
2. **Transcendence and Otherness:** The title emphasizes God's elevated position, separating Him from all created beings and highlighting His unique divine nature. He is distinct from and superior to all human and cosmic powers, including false deities. This transcendence ensures His unchallengeable power and wisdom.
3. **Unassailable Authority:** As the "Most High," God's decrees are final, and His plans are immutable. No earthly or spiritual force can thwart His purposes. This provides a foundation for trust and security for those who serve Him, knowing that their ultimate destiny rests in the hands of the omnipotent ruler.
4. **Universal Acknowledgment:** The fact that Gentile kings (Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus) are depicted using this title underscores the biblical assertion that God's supremacy is not limited to the covenant people of Israel but is a universal truth that even those outside the covenant are, at times, forced to recognize.
5. **Hope and Assurance:** For the faithful, especially in times of oppression (as depicted in Daniel 7), the "Most High" is the one who will ultimately establish His eternal kingdom and vindicate His saints, offering a powerful message of hope and ultimate victory.
### Summary
H5946 (עֶלְיוֹן, ʻelyôwn) is the Aramaic term for "Most High" or "Supreme," functioning exclusively as a divine title. Primarily found in the Aramaic sections of Daniel and once in Ezra, its usage consistently underscores God's absolute sovereignty, transcendence, and unparalleled authority over all creation and human affairs. Theologically, it highlights God's unique position as the supreme ruler, whose will is ultimate and whose dominion is universal, offering both a challenge to human pride and a profound source of hope and security for His people. It serves as a powerful declaration of God's preeminence above all else.
TRV