### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **pᵉraç**, represented by `{{H6537}}`, means **to split up; divide**. The term also appears in the form Upharsin. Though it appears only **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, its role is highly significant as it relates to a direct pronouncement of divine judgment and the partitioning of a kingdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical usage of `{{H6537}}` is exclusively found in the account of the writing on the wall in Daniel 5. It first appears as **UPHARSIN** as part of the mysterious message written for the king of Babylon [[Daniel 5:25]]. Daniel then interprets this word, stating it as **PERES**, and explains its meaning: "Thy kingdom is **divided**, and given to the Medes and Persians" [[Daniel 5:28]]. The word, therefore, functions as both the prophecy and the explanation of a kingdom's imminent fragmentation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words are crucial to understanding the context of `{{H6537}}`:
* `{{H4484}}` **mᵉnêʼ** (numbered; Mene): This word appears directly before `{{H6537}}` in the divine writing [[Daniel 5:25]]. Daniel interprets it to mean that God has **numbered** the kingdom and finished it [[Daniel 5:26]].
* `{{H8625}}` **tᵉqal** (to balance; Tekel, be weighed): This is the middle word of the famous phrase [[Daniel 5:25]], interpreted to mean "Thou art **weighed** in the balances, and art found wanting" [[Daniel 5:27]].
* `{{H6540}}` **Pâraç** (Persia, Persians): This word represents the people who would receive the divided kingdom. The use of PERES `{{H6537}}` serves as a direct wordplay on **Persians** `{{H6540}}`, linking the act of division to the inheritors of that division [[Daniel 5:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6537}}` is concentrated in its role as a term of divine verdict.
* **Divine Judgment:** As the final word of the interpreted message, **pᵉraç** represents the execution of a sentence. Following the numbering (Mene) and weighing (Tekel), the division (Peres) is the consequence of being found wanting by God.
* **Sovereignty over Kingdoms:** The word underscores God's ultimate authority to give and divide kingdoms. The declaration that the kingdom is **divided** and given away [[Daniel 5:28]] is a stark reminder that human dominion is subject to divine will.
* **Prophetic Wordplay:** The linguistic link between the judgment "divided" `{{H6537}}` and the "Persians" `{{H6540}}` who would conquer Babylon highlights the precision of God's prophetic word, where the punishment itself points to the instrument of that punishment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6537}}` **pᵉraç** is a powerful Aramaic term signifying a final, divine act of division. While its usage is rare, its placement in the Daniel 5 narrative makes it unforgettable. It functions as the concluding element in the "writing on the wall," communicating the verdict of judgment against a king and the fragmentation of his kingdom. Its relationship with the other words in the message demonstrates a layered and precise prophetic announcement of God's sovereignty over the nations.
TRV