### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H6236}}` (ʻăsar) serves as the direct numerical equivalent to the Hebrew `{{H6235}}` (ʻeser), both signifying the cardinal number "ten." Its primary semantic range is strictly quantitative, denoting a count of ten units. Beyond this singular numerical value, the definition notes its use in phrases to form "twelve," specifically as "two and ten." This highlights its role as a building block in compounding larger numbers within Aramaic numerical expressions. As an Aramaic word, its occurrences are confined to the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, primarily in the books of Daniel and Ezra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H6236}}` are found exclusively within the Aramaic portions of the Bible, predominantly in the book of Daniel, with one significant instance in Ezra.
In Daniel, `{{H6236}}` is used in both literal and symbolic contexts:
* **Literal Numerical Count:**
* [[Daniel 1:20]]: Daniel and his companions are found "ten times better" in wisdom and understanding than all the magicians and enchanters. Here, `{{H6236}}` functions as a multiplier, emphasizing the extraordinary degree of divine favor and intellectual superiority bestowed upon them.
* **Symbolic Representation in Prophecy:**
* [[Daniel 2:41]], [[Daniel 2:42]]: The "ten toes" of the statue in Nebuchadnezzar's dream represent a fragmented kingdom, partly strong and partly brittle. The number "ten" here signifies a division or culmination of earthly power.
* [[Daniel 7:7]], [[Daniel 7:20]], [[Daniel 7:24]]: The "ten horns" of the fourth beast are explicitly interpreted as "ten kings" who will arise from that kingdom. In this apocalyptic context, "ten" denotes a specific, though not necessarily exhaustive, set of rulers or powers that emerge from a larger entity, often signifying completeness or a full complement of powers within a given phase.
In Ezra, `{{H6236}}` contributes to the formation of the number "twelve":
* [[Ezra 6:17]]: During the dedication of the rebuilt temple, "twelve he-goats" are offered "according to the number of the tribes of Israel." The phrase for "twelve" here is תְּרֵי עֲשַׂר (t'rê ăśar), where `{{H6236}}` (ʻăsar) is combined with `{{H8649}}` (t'rê, "two"). This usage underscores the numerical precision in cultic practice and the symbolic connection to the twelve tribes, representing the entirety of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H6236}}` is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H6235}}` (ʻeser), which also means "ten." Both words share the same numerical value and often carry similar thematic weight in their respective linguistic contexts.
Conceptually, `{{H6236}}` connects to the broader biblical understanding of numbers:
* **Cardinal Numbers:** As a cardinal number, it functions to quantify, providing precision to historical accounts and prophetic visions.
* **Symbolic Numerology:** The number ten often carries symbolic weight in biblical thought, frequently associated with divine order, completeness, or testing (e.g., the Ten Commandments, the ten plagues in Egypt, tithes representing a tenth). In Daniel, its symbolic use is particularly pronounced, representing a full complement of kings or a final stage of a kingdom.
* **Compounding Numbers:** Its use in forming "twelve" (two and ten) connects it to other compound numbers, showcasing the systematic nature of numerical expression in Aramaic and Hebrew, and often pointing to covenantal or tribal significance (e.g., the twelve tribes of Israel, twelve apostles).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6236}}` stems primarily from its appearances in prophetic and historical contexts.
In Daniel, the repeated mention of "ten" (e.g., "ten toes," "ten horns") underscores the divine precision in foretelling the rise and fall of earthly kingdoms. It highlights God's sovereign control over history, demonstrating that even the number of rulers or the fragmented nature of future empires is within His knowledge and predetermined plan. The "ten times better" in [[Daniel 1:20]] also speaks to the divine wisdom and discernment granted to those who remain faithful, contrasting human wisdom with God-given insight.
In Ezra, the offering of "twelve he-goats" ([[Ezra 6:17]]) is profoundly significant. The number twelve, formed using `{{H6236}}` as its "ten" component, explicitly links the restored community to the twelve tribes of Israel. This act of worship, precisely aligned with the full representation of God's covenant people, emphasizes continuity with the patriarchal promises, the enduring nature of the covenant, and the comprehensive scope of the temple's dedication for all Israel, even in post-exilic times. It serves as a powerful theological statement of identity and restoration.
### Summary
`{{H6236}}` (ʻăsar) is the Aramaic cardinal number "ten," functioning as a direct counterpart to the Hebrew `{{H6235}}`. Its usage is confined to the Aramaic sections of Daniel and Ezra. In Daniel, it appears both literally, as in "ten times better," and symbolically, as "ten toes" and "ten horns," signifying the precise details of divine prophecy concerning earthly kingdoms and their rulers. In Ezra, `{{H6236}}` is crucial in forming the number "twelve" (two and ten), particularly in the context of the twelve tribes of Israel, underscoring the theological significance of covenant continuity and the comprehensive nature of the restored community's worship. Across its occurrences, `{{H6236}}` consistently points to divine order, precision, and the unfolding of God's sovereign plan in history.
TRV