### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʻănaph**, represented by `{{H6056}}`, translates to **bough** or **branch**. This term, defined as a twig that covers the limbs of a tree, appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all occurrences of `{{H6056}}` are found in the description of the great tree in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. The **boughs** are depicted as providing shelter and a place for the "fowls of the heaven" to dwell [[Daniel 4:12]]. The description is repeated in the dream's interpretation, where the fowls of heaven have their habitation upon the tree's **branches** [[Daniel 4:21]]. Conversely, the word is also used in the command for the tree's destruction, where a watcher cries aloud to "cut off his **branches**" [[Daniel 4:14]], signifying the removal of its reach and power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller picture of the context in which **ʻănaph** is used:
* `{{H363}}` **ʼîylân** (tree): This is the object to which the **branches** belong. The command to hew down the **tree** is directly linked to cutting off its branches [[Daniel 4:14]].
* `{{H6074}}` **ʻŏphîy** (leaves): This word is used in parallel with **branches** to describe the tree's foliage. Both the **leaves** and fruit are to be shaken off and scattered during the tree's judgment [[Daniel 4:14]].
* `{{H6853}}` **tsᵉphar** (bird): The **branches** serve a distinct purpose as a dwelling place for these creatures, described as the "fowls of the heaven" who had their habitation upon them [[Daniel 4:21]].
* `{{H7113}}` **qᵉtsats** (cut off): This verb describes the specific action taken against the **branches**. The divine command is to "cut off" the branches as a central part of dismantling the great tree [[Daniel 4:14]].
### Theological Significance
The symbolic weight of `{{H6056}}` is entirely tied to the allegory of the great tree in Daniel's prophecy.
* **Symbol of Shelter and Influence:** The **boughs** represent the protective reach of the power symbolized by the tree, providing a dwelling place for the fowls of the heaven [[Daniel 4:12]]. This demonstrates a sphere of influence and provision.
* **Target of Divine Judgment:** The **branches** are a primary target in the decreed judgment against the tree. The command to "cut off his **branches**" [[Daniel 4:14]] signifies a direct and forceful removal of this power and influence.
* **Source of Habitation:** The branches provide a habitation for creatures, as seen where the fowls dwelt upon them [[Daniel 4:21]]. This highlights the role of the kingdom as a place where others could reside and find a place.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻănaph** `{{H6056}}` is a specific Aramaic term for **bough** or **branch** used exclusively within the prophetic dream of Daniel 4. While a simple botanical term, it carries significant symbolic meaning, representing both the life-sustaining reach of a mighty kingdom and the specific part of that kingdom which is to be cut off in an act of divine judgment.
TRV