The Aramaic word qaddîysh, represented by H6922, corresponds to the Hebrew word for sacred and is translated as holy (One) or saint. It appears 13 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel. The term designates something or someone as sacred, either ceremonially or morally. As a noun, it can refer to an angel, a saint, or by eminence, God Himself.
In the biblical narrative, H6922 is used in two primary contexts. Firstly, it refers to heavenly beings. In King Nebuchadnezzar's dream, he sees "a watcher and an holy one" descending from heaven (Daniel 4:13, Daniel 4:23). The subsequent judgment is declared to be "by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones" Daniel 4:17. Secondly, the term refers to God's faithful people. A hostile power is prophesied to "wear out the saints of the most High" Daniel 7:25 and make war with them Daniel 7:21. Despite this persecution, these saints are promised an everlasting kingdom (Daniel 7:18, Daniel 7:27). Nebuchadnezzar also uses the term when acknowledging the "spirit of the holy gods" in Daniel (Daniel 4:9, Daniel 5:11).
Several related Aramaic words provide a deeper understanding of the role and context of the holy ones:
- H5894 ʻîyr (a watcher, i.e. an angel (as guardian)): This word is used in direct parallel with qaddîysh to describe the celestial beings in Nebuchadnezzar's vision, as in "a watcher and an holy one" Daniel 4:13.
- H5946 ʻelyôwn (the Supreme): This title is frequently attached to the saints, identifying them as belonging to the highest authority. They are called the "saints of the most High" who will ultimately receive the kingdom (Daniel 7:18, Daniel 7:22).
- H5943 ʻillay (supreme (i.e. God)): This term for the "most High" is used to denote the one against whom the opposing power speaks, and whose saints are persecuted Daniel 7:25. It affirms the divine authority that the holy ones serve.
- H1080 bᵉlâʼ (to afflict; wear out): This verb describes the persecution aimed at the saints, highlighting the conflict they endure. A future power will "speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints" Daniel 7:25.
The theological weight of H6922 is centered on divine sovereignty and eschatological hope.
- Angelic Authority: The term identifies celestial beings as agents of divine will. The "decree of the watchers" and "demand by the word of the holy ones" demonstrates that events on earth are subject to heavenly judgment Daniel 4:17.
- Identity of God's People: As "saints," God's people are defined by their sacred status and their connection to the "most High" H5946. This identity is what marks them for opposition by earthly powers that defy God Daniel 7:21.
- Eschatological Vindication: A core theme is the ultimate triumph of the saints. Despite being persecuted and warred against, they are promised to receive and possess an everlasting kingdom when the Ancient of days comes and judgment is given in their favor (Daniel 7:18, Daniel 7:22, Daniel 7:27).
In summary, H6922 qaddîysh is a significant term in the book of Daniel that refers to both celestial beings who execute God's will and to His faithful people on earth. It is a cornerstone of the prophetic struggle depicted in Daniel, defining the participants in the conflict between worldly kingdoms and God's authority. It illustrates how a single word can carry layers of meaning, encompassing heavenly messengers and the persecuted faithful who are promised an eternal inheritance.
TRV