### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word `{{H5967}}` (ʻălaʻ), appearing as עֲלַע, carries the singular and precise meaning of "rib." This term is directly identified as corresponding to the more frequently occurring Hebrew word `{{H6763}}` (צֵלָע), which also denotes a "rib" in an anatomical sense. While `{{H6763}}` possesses a broader semantic range, extending to "side," "chamber," or "plank" in architectural contexts, `{{H5967}}` itself is narrowly defined and used exclusively to signify an anatomical rib. Its Aramaic origin limits its occurrences to the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H5967}}` appears only once in the biblical text, found in the prophetic book of Daniel:
* **[[Daniel 7:5]]**: "And behold another beast, a second, like to a bear, and it raised up itself on one side, and it had three ribs in the mouth of it between the teeth of it: and they said thus unto it, Arise, devour much flesh."
In this sole occurrence, `{{H5967}}` refers to literal, anatomical ribs. The context is a vivid apocalyptic vision presented to Daniel, where a series of beasts symbolize successive world empires. The second beast, likened to a bear, is generally interpreted as representing the Medo-Persian Empire. The "three ribs" in its mouth are understood symbolically to represent three conquered territories, nations, or rulers that this empire devoured or subjugated. They signify the spoils of conquest and the aggressive, predatory nature of the kingdom. The placement "between the teeth" further emphasizes the act of consumption and destruction, highlighting the immense power and rapaciousness of the empire.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related word is the Hebrew `{{H6763}}` (צֵלָע), which, as noted, is the direct Hebrew equivalent of `{{H5967}}`. `{{H6763}}` is famously used in the account of creation where God forms Eve from Adam's "rib" ([[Genesis 2:21-22]]). Beyond the anatomical, `{{H6763}}` also describes the "side" or "wing" of a building, a "plank," or a "chamber" (e.g., [[Exodus 26:20]], [[1 Kings 6:34]]). While `{{H5967}}` does not carry these architectural connotations, its direct correspondence to `{{H6763}}` links it to the broader concept of a structural component or a part taken from a larger whole.
In the context of [[Daniel 7:5]], related concepts include:
* **Conquest and Dominion**: The ribs represent the spoils of war and the extension of imperial power.
* **Predation and Destruction**: The imagery of a beast devouring ribs speaks to the violent and destructive nature of earthly kingdoms.
* **Symbolism in Prophecy**: The word functions as a concrete detail within a larger symbolic vision, requiring interpretation to understand its deeper meaning.
### Theological Significance
Though `{{H5967}}` appears only once, its theological significance is profound within the framework of Daniel's prophecy. The "three ribs" in the bear's mouth serve as a stark symbol of the destructive power and insatiable appetite of human empires that operate apart from God's righteous rule. This imagery underscores several key theological truths:
1. **Divine Sovereignty over Human History**: Even terrifying beasts, representing powerful earthly kingdoms, are ultimately under the sovereign control of God. The precise number of "ribs" suggests a divinely ordained limit or specific revelation concerning the extent of their conquests.
2. **The Nature of Earthly Power**: The depiction of the bear devouring ribs highlights the often violent, exploitative, and oppressive nature of human political power when unchecked by divine principles. It serves as a contrast to the benevolent and eternal kingdom of God described later in Daniel 7.
3. **Revelation and Interpretation**: The specific detail of the "ribs" is part of God's detailed prophetic revelation, requiring prayerful and Spirit-led interpretation to discern its meaning for God's people. It assures believers that God has foreknowledge of historical events and reveals them to His servants.
4. **Contrast with Creation**: When contrasted with the use of `{{H6763}}` in Genesis, where a "rib" is used by God in an act of life-giving creation ([[Genesis 2:21-22]]), the use of `{{H5967}}` in Daniel presents a grim counterpoint of destruction and consumption, illustrating the fallen state of humanity and its empires.
### Summary
The Aramaic word `{{H5967}}` (ʻălaʻ) precisely means "rib" and serves as the direct Aramaic counterpart to the Hebrew `{{H6763}}`. Its singular biblical occurrence in [[Daniel 7:5]] is highly significant, where "three ribs" in the mouth of a bear symbolize the conquered territories or victims of a powerful, predatory empire. This specific detail within Daniel's apocalyptic vision underscores God's meticulous revelation of future events and His ultimate sovereignty over the rise and fall of human kingdoms. The imagery powerfully conveys the destructive nature of earthly power, standing in stark contrast to the divine, life-giving creation associated with its Hebrew equivalent. Thus, even a word with a narrow semantic range contributes profoundly to the rich theological tapestry of biblical prophecy.
TRV