The Aramaic word ʻâr, represented by H6146, is a term for enemy. It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The definition, "a foe (as watchful for mischief)," points to an active and hostile opponent.
The sole appearance of H6146 is found in the book of Daniel. After King Nebuchadnezzar recounts a disturbing dream, the prophet Daniel is troubled by its meaning. Before revealing the interpretation, Daniel expresses his loyalty to the king by wishing the ominous message upon the king's adversaries, stating, "My lord, the dream be to them that hate thee, and the interpretation thereof to thine enemies" Daniel 4:19. In this context, ʻâr is used to identify those who are hostile toward the king, positioning them as the proper recipients of a terrible fate.
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside H6146 in its only biblical context, adding depth to the scene:
- H8131 sᵉnêʼ (to hate): This term is used in parallel with ʻâr, directly linking the state of being an enemy with personal hatred toward the king Daniel 4:19.
- H2493 chêlem (dream): The entire event is prompted by the king's dream, the negative portent of which Daniel wishes upon the king's enemies Daniel 4:19.
- H6591 pᵉshar (interpretation): The interpretation of the dream is what carries the troubling prophecy, and Daniel desires that this message apply only to the enemies Daniel 4:19.
- H927 bᵉhal (to terrify, hasten; in haste, trouble): This word describes the emotional impact of the dream, as Daniel's thoughts troubled him. By wishing the interpretation on the king's enemies, he is effectively wishing this trouble upon them Daniel 4:19.
The significance of H6146 is tied directly to its specific use within a prophetic declaration.
- Target of Judgment: The word functions to identify the intended recipients of a negative prophecy. Daniel's statement directs the judgment foretold in the dream away from the king and toward those who oppose him.
- Expression of Loyalty: By wishing the dream's dire message upon the king's enemies, Daniel clearly demonstrates his allegiance and separates himself from those who are against the king.
- Defining Opposition: The term defines an enemy as not just a political foe but as one who personally hates the king, as shown by its parallel usage with the word for "hate" H8131 in Daniel 4:19.
In summary, H6146 ʻâr is a specific Aramaic term for enemy. Its singular appearance in scripture is significant, used by Daniel to deflect a calamitous prophetic interpretation from King Nebuchadnezzar onto his foes. The word serves to define personal and political opposition, marking the appropriate target for judgment while simultaneously affirming the speaker's loyalty.
TRV