### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼeben**, represented by `{{H69}}`, translates to **stone**. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used both in a literal sense, referring to physical stones as building materials or objects, and in a deeply symbolic way, most notably in prophetic visions within the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its literal application, `{{H69}}` is used to describe construction materials. The house of God in Judea is reported to be **builded** `{{H1124}}` with "great **stones**" [[Ezra 5:8]], a detail repeated in the decree authorizing its reconstruction [[Ezra 6:4]]. It is also used to describe the **stone** brought to **seal** `{{H2857}}` the mouth of the lions' **den** `{{H1358}}` where Daniel was cast [[Daniel 6:17]]. A second context is its use in idolatry. King Belshazzar and his lords **praised** `{{H7624}}` gods of various materials, including **stone** [[Daniel 5:4]]. This act of worship is condemned because these idols "see not, nor hear, nor know," in stark contrast to the living God who holds all life and has not been **glorified** `{{H1922}}` by the king [[Daniel 5:23]]. The most significant use of `{{H69}}` is in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. A **stone** was "cut out without hands" and it **smote** `{{H4223}}` the great image, breaking it to pieces [[Daniel 2:34]]. This same **stone** then "became a great mountain, and filled the whole earth" [[Daniel 2:35]], symbolizing a divine kingdom that would replace all earthly powers.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the use of **ʼeben**:
* `{{H1505}}` **gᵉzar** (to quarry; cut out): This verb describes the supernatural origin of the prophetic **stone**, which was "cut out without hands" ([[Daniel 2:34]], [[Daniel 2:45]]).
* `{{H2906}}` **ṭûwr** (mountain): The prophetic **stone** is both **cut out** `{{H1505}}` from a **mountain** and later becomes a great **mountain** itself, filling the earth ([[Daniel 2:35]], [[Daniel 2:45]]).
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This word is used in connection with the literal **stones** for the reconstruction of God's **house** `{{H1005}}` in Jerusalem [[Ezra 5:8]].
* `{{H1358}}` **gôb** (den): This word identifies the pit where Daniel was confined, the entrance of which was sealed by a **stone** [[Daniel 6:17]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H69}}` highlights several key theological themes, particularly within the book of Daniel:
* **Divine Origin of God's Kingdom:** The prophetic **stone** is specifically described as being "cut out without hands" ([[Daniel 2:34]], [[Daniel 2:45]]). This emphasizes that the coming kingdom is of divine, not human, origin and power.
* **Judgment on Human Kingdoms:** The action of the **stone** is one of judgment. It **smote** `{{H4223}}` and **brake in pieces** `{{H1855}}` the image representing a succession of human empires, demonstrating God's ultimate authority over them [[Daniel 2:34-35]].
* **The Futility of Idolatry:** The word **stone** is used to describe the materials of lifeless idols which are praised by pagan kings [[Daniel 5:4]]. These are contrasted with the true God, who is the source of **breath** `{{H5396}}` and life, exposing the emptiness of idol worship [[Daniel 5:23]].
### Summary
In summary, the Aramaic word **ʼeben** `{{H69}}` carries both literal and profound symbolic weight. While it can refer to an ordinary **stone** used in construction [[Ezra 5:8]] or for sealing a den [[Daniel 6:17]], its most powerful meaning is found in prophecy. As the **stone** cut without hands, it represents God's divine and unstoppable kingdom, which will judge and ultimately supersede all human authority [[Daniel 2:45]]. It powerfully contrasts the lifelessness of man-made idols with the world-altering power of the living God.
TRV