(Aramaic) a root corresponding to that of צֶבַע; to dip; wet.
Transliteration:tsᵉbaʻ
Pronunciation:tseb-ah'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb צְבַע (tsᵉbaʻ), Strong's number `{{H6647}}`, carries the fundamental meaning "to dip" or "to wet." Its semantic range is relatively narrow within the biblical corpus, primarily appearing in the passive sense, "to be wet" or "to be drenched." This root corresponds to the Hebrew צֶבַע (tsebhaʻ), `{{H6648}}`, which denotes "dye" or "colored stuff," suggesting an original association with the act of dipping for coloring. However, in its Aramaic verbal form, `{{H6647}}` specifically emphasizes the action of becoming saturated with liquid, rather than the resulting coloration. In its sole biblical context, it describes a state of being thoroughly moistened by an external agent, highlighting a profound physical experience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb צְבַע (tsᵉbaʻ) occurs exclusively in the Book of Daniel, specifically within the narrative concerning King Nebuchadnezzar's divine judgment and subsequent restoration. Its four occurrences consistently describe the king's condition during his period of madness:
* [[Daniel 4:15]]: "Let him be wet with the dew of heaven."
* [[Daniel 4:23]]: "and let him be wet with the dew of heaven."
* [[Daniel 4:33]]: "and his body was wet with the dew of heaven."
* [[Daniel 5:21]]: "and his body was wet with the dew of heaven."
In each instance, the phrase "wet with the dew of heaven" (בְּטַל שְׁמַיָּא יִצְבַּע) is crucial. The wetting is not a casual occurrence but a direct consequence of divine decree, part of Nebuchadnezzar's humbling. This physical exposure to the elements, leading to a state of being perpetually drenched by dew, symbolizes his complete degradation from a mighty king to a wild, animal-like existence. It signifies the stripping away of his royal dignity, his human comforts, and his very sanity, forcing him to live exposed to the natural world, utterly dependent on forces beyond his control. The repeated use of this specific phrase underscores the persistent nature of his affliction and the direct involvement of "heaven" (a common circumlocution for God) in his judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the Hebrew noun צֶבַע (tsebhaʻ), `{{H6648}}`, which, as noted, means "dye" or "colored stuff." While `{{H6647}}` focuses on the action of wetting, `{{H6648}}` points to the outcome of such an action, particularly in the context of textiles. This etymological connection reinforces the idea of saturation or impregnation with liquid.
Conceptually, צְבַע (tsᵉbaʻ) in Daniel is linked to:
* **Humiliation and Degradation:** The act of being wet by dew signifies a loss of shelter, status, and human comfort, reducing the king to a primal state.
* **Divine Judgment and Providence:** The "dew of heaven" is not merely a natural phenomenon but a direct instrument of God's will, demonstrating His active intervention in human affairs.
* **Transformation and Restoration:** Paradoxically, this state of being "wet" is a necessary part of Nebuchadnezzar's transformative journey. It is through this profound humbling that he ultimately acknowledges the sovereignty of the Most High and is restored.
* **Exposure and Vulnerability:** The constant wetting implies a lack of protection, highlighting the king's utter vulnerability before God.
Unlike ritual washings or baptisms that signify purification or initiation, the "wetting" described by `{{H6647}}` in Daniel is a passive experience of exposure and judgment, designed to break the pride of the recipient rather than cleanse or sanctify them in a cultic sense.
### Theological Significance
The theological import of צְבַע (tsᵉbaʻ) in Daniel is profound, serving as a powerful symbol of God's absolute sovereignty over all earthly powers.
1. **God's Supremacy over Kings:** The primary lesson conveyed through Nebuchadnezzar's humiliation is that "the Most High rules in the kingdom of mankind and gives it to whom he will" [[Daniel 4:17]], [[Daniel 4:25]], [[Daniel 4:32]]. The king, despite his immense power and pride, is utterly subject to divine will. The "wetting" by the "dew of heaven" is a tangible demonstration that even the elements of nature are at God's command to humble the proud.
2. **The Necessity of Humility:** Nebuchadnezzar's transformation from a proud despot to a worshiper of the Most High is predicated on his experience of being "wet" and living like a beast. This physical degradation is a metaphor for the spiritual humbling required for true wisdom and recognition of God. Only when stripped of his self-sufficiency does he acknowledge the divine.
3. **Divine Discipline and Restoration:** The "wetting" is a form of divine discipline, not merely punitive but redemptive. It is a severe mercy designed to bring about repentance and a correct understanding of God's power and dominion. The restoration of Nebuchadnezzar's sanity and kingdom after his acknowledgment of God highlights the restorative power of divine judgment when met with humility.
4. **Nature as an Instrument of God:** The "dew of heaven," a common and often benign natural phenomenon, is here depicted as an active agent of divine will. This underscores the biblical truth that all creation is subject to God and can be employed to achieve His purposes, whether in blessing or in judgment.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb צְבַע (tsᵉbaʻ), `{{H6647}}`, consistently means "to dip" or, more specifically in its biblical usage, "to be wet" or "to be drenched." Its entire occurrence in Scripture is limited to the Book of Daniel, where it vividly describes King Nebuchadnezzar's body being "wet with the dew of heaven" during his period of divine judgment. This physical state of exposure and degradation serves as a potent symbol of his humiliation and the stripping away of his pride. Theologically, צְבַע (tsᵉbaʻ) underscores God's absolute sovereignty over human rulers, demonstrating that even the most powerful monarchs are subject to His will. It highlights the profound necessity of humility before God and illustrates how divine discipline, even through severe means, can lead to repentance, recognition of God's supremacy, and ultimate restoration.
TRV