The Aramaic word qᵉbal, represented by H6902, means to acquire; receive, take. It is a specific term, appearing only 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage centers on the transfer of power, authority, or reward.
In the book of Daniel, H6902 is used to describe significant acts of acquisition. It appears in the context of receiving rewards, as when King Nebuchadnezzar promises that his wise men shall receive of him gifts if they can interpret his dream Daniel 2:6. It is also used to signify the transfer of political power, such as when Darius the Median took the kingdom Daniel 5:31. Prophetically, it describes how the saints of the most High will one day take the kingdom and possess it forever Daniel 7:18.
Several related Aramaic words clarify the context in which one might receive or take something:
- H2324 chăvâʼ (to show; shew): This term is often linked to revelation. The promise to receive H6902 gifts is conditional upon being able to shew the king his dream Daniel 2:6.
- H2631 chăçan (to hold in occupancy; possess): This word appears alongside H6902 to describe the full transfer of authority. The saints not only take the kingdom but also possess it Daniel 7:18.
- H4978 mattᵉnâʼ (gift): This is the object that is to be received H6902. It is used for the promised gifts from the king in exchange for revealing the interpretation of his dream Daniel 2:6.
The theological weight of H6902 is tied to God's sovereignty over kingdoms and rewards.
- Transfer of Kingdoms: The word H6902 is used to mark pivotal moments of transition in sovereign rule, both earthly and prophetic. It signifies Darius taking the kingdom Daniel 5:31 and, ultimately, the saints H6922 taking their everlasting kingdom Daniel 7:18.
- Reward for Revealed Knowledge: In Daniel, to receive H6902 a reward is directly connected to the ability to shew H2324 divinely revealed secrets, a task that proves impossible for men without God's help Daniel 2:6.
- Prophetic Inheritance: The term carries significant eschatological weight, promising that God's saints H6922 will actively take and possess H2631 the final, everlasting kingdom as their inheritance Daniel 7:18.
In summary, the Aramaic word H6902 qᵉbal, though rare, plays a crucial role in the book of Daniel. It consistently signifies a definitive act of acquisition, whether it is receiving promised gifts or taking control of a kingdom. Its usage underscores themes of divine sovereignty over earthly empires and the promised future inheritance for the saints. The word illustrates how God orchestrates the transfer of both power and reward according to His will.
TRV