The Aramaic word ʻămar, represented by H6015, is defined as wool. It is an exceedingly rare term, corresponding to its Hebrew counterpart. It appears only 1 time in the entirety of the biblical text, located in 1 unique verse, yet its single use carries significant symbolic weight.
The sole appearance of H6015 is found in a profound vision within the book of Daniel. The prophet describes the Ancient of Days seated for judgment, stating that "the hair of his head" was "like the pure wool" Daniel 7:9. In this context, the word is used to paint a picture of immense age, wisdom, and absolute purity, describing the very appearance of this divine figure.
The imagery in its only context is reinforced by other Aramaic words used in the same verse:
- H2358 chivvâr (white): This word is used to describe the garment of the Ancient of Days, which was "white as snow" Daniel 7:9. This description of whiteness runs parallel to the purity implied by the wool.
- H8517 tᵉlag (snow): Used as the simile for the garment's color, snow provides the benchmark for the perfect whiteness and purity of God's appearance in the vision Daniel 7:9.
The theological weight of H6015 is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context in Daniel's vision.
- Absolute Purity: The description of the hair being like "pure wool" signifies the untainted holiness and righteousness of the Ancient of Days. This establishes the character of the divine judge.
- Venerable Age and Wisdom: White hair, likened to wool, is a classic symbol of great age and the wisdom that accompanies it. This visually reinforces the title "Ancient of Days."
- Righteous Judgment: The vision in Daniel 7 is about divine judgment. The pure appearance of the Judge, highlighted by His hair like pure wool and garment white as snow, underscores the perfect and just nature of His decrees.
In summary, while H6015 is a hapax legomenon (a word appearing only once), its role is pivotal. It is not merely a descriptive term for a material. Instead, in its sole biblical context, ʻămar functions as a key element in one of scripture's most potent revelations of God's character, symbolizing his eternal nature, perfect purity, and righteous authority as the ultimate Judge.
TRV