### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **tselem**, represented by `{{H6755}}`, means an **image**, **form**, or **idolatrous figure**. It appears 17 times across 15 unique verses, exclusively in the book of Daniel. The term is used to describe both a literal, physical statue built for worship and a symbolic figure within a prophetic dream.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6755}}` is central to two key events in the book of Daniel. First, it appears as the "great **image**" in King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, which was composed of a head of gold, breast of silver, and other materials, representing successive earthly kingdoms [[Daniel 2:31-32]]. This prophetic **image** is ultimately struck and broken to pieces by a stone cut without hands [[Daniel 2:34]]. Second, the word refers to the golden **image** that Nebuchadnezzar constructed and commanded all his officials to worship [[Daniel 3:1]]. The refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to worship this **image** is a pivotal moment of faithfulness [[Daniel 3:18]]. The word is also used once figuratively to describe how the **form** of Nebuchadnezzar's face changed with fury [[Daniel 3:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the meaning of **tselem**:
* `{{H6966}}` **qûwm** ({to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)}; appoint, establish, make, raise up self, (a-) rise (up), (make to) stand, set (up)): This verb is repeatedly used to describe how Nebuchadnezzar had "set up" the image for worship [[Daniel 3:1]].
* `{{H5457}}` **çᵉgid** ({to prostrate oneself (in homage)}; worship): This is the primary action demanded in relation to the golden image, highlighting the theme of idolatry. All people were commanded to fall down and **worship** the image Nebuchadnezzar had set up [[Daniel 3:7]].
* `{{H1722}}` **dᵉhab** ((Aramaic) corresponding to זָהָב; gold; gold(-en)): This word specifies the material of the idolatrous figure in Daniel 3, referring to it as the "**golden** image" [[Daniel 3:18]].
* `{{H7299}}` **rêv** (from a root corresponding to רָאָה; aspect; form): Used in conjunction with `{{H6755}}`, this word describes the terrible **form** of the great image in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, emphasizing its visual appearance [[Daniel 2:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6755}}` is demonstrated through its usage in Daniel:
* **A Test of Faith:** The golden **image** serves as the focal point for a conflict between the absolute power of a human king and the exclusive worship due to God. The refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to **worship** the golden **image** establishes a powerful theme of unwavering loyalty to God over human decrees [[Daniel 3:18]].
* **Symbol of Earthly Kingdoms:** In Daniel's vision, the great **image** symbolizes the transient nature of human power. Its composition of various metals represents a sequence of kingdoms that will ultimately be destroyed [[Daniel 2:32]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The destruction of the **image** by a stone "cut out without hands" signifies God's supreme authority over all human empires and history. The stone that smote the **image** becomes a great mountain that fills the earth, symbolizing the establishment of God's eternal kingdom [[Daniel 2:34-35]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6755}}` is a multifaceted word that encapsulates major themes within the book of Daniel. It functions as both a concrete object of idolatry that tests the faithfulness of God's people and as a powerful prophetic symbol of the rise and fall of human kingdoms. The narrative arc of the **image**, from its construction by a human king to its destruction by a divine force, powerfully illustrates the biblical contrast between the fleeting glory of man and the everlasting kingdom of God.
TRV