(Aramaic) corresponding to קָדוֹשׁ.; {sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) God (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary}; holy (One), saint.
Transliteration:qaddîysh
Pronunciation:kad-deesh'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H6922}}` (qaddîysh) functions as the direct semantic and etymological equivalent of the Hebrew `{{H6918}}` (qādôsh). At its core, the word carries the fundamental meaning of "separation," "setting apart," or "distinction." This separation is not merely physical but implies a qualitative difference, often denoting purity, sacredness, and moral integrity.
Its semantic range extends to encompass:
* **Adjective:** "sacred" (both ceremonially and morally), "holy."
* **Noun:**
* "God" (by eminence, as "the Holy One").
* An "angel" or divine being ("a holy one").
* A "saint" or consecrated person ("a holy one," referring to God's elect).
* A "sanctuary" or a place set apart for divine purposes.
This multifaceted definition underscores the concept of being distinct from the common or profane, reserved for a special, often divine, purpose or nature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, `{{H6922}}` (qaddîysh) is found exclusively within the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, primarily in the book of Daniel. Its occurrences are pivotal for understanding its various applications:
* **Divine Beings/Angels:** In Daniel 4, qaddîysh is used to describe "watchers" or "holy ones" who are divine messengers or members of God's heavenly court. Nebuchadnezzar's dream speaks of "a watcher, a holy one, coming down from heaven" ([[Daniel 4:13]], [[Daniel 4:23]]). These "holy ones" are depicted as executing the decrees of the Most High ([[Daniel 4:17]]), emphasizing their consecrated nature and their role in divine administration. Similarly, Daniel refers to "the spirit of the holy gods" in Nebuchadnezzar's understanding ([[Daniel 4:8]], [[Daniel 4:9]], [[Daniel 4:18]]), which Daniel interprets as the Spirit of God.
* **The Saints of the Most High:** Perhaps the most significant usage of qaddîysh is in Daniel 7, where it refers to "the saints of the Most High" (e.g., [[Daniel 7:18]], [[Daniel 7:21]], [[Daniel 7:22]], [[Daniel 7:25]], [[Daniel 7:27]]). In this apocalyptic vision, these "saints" are depicted as a persecuted people who will ultimately receive and possess the eternal kingdom. This usage highlights a corporate holiness, where God's chosen people are set apart by Him and destined for His glorious reign, standing in stark contrast to the worldly kingdoms represented by the beasts.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H6918}}` (qādôsh), which shares the same root (Q-D-Sh) and fundamental meaning of "holy" or "set apart." This common Semitic root signifies separation, consecration, and purity.
Other related concepts include:
* **Purity and Cleanliness:** Holiness often implies a state of being free from defilement, both ritual and moral.
* **Divine Otherness (Transcendence):** God's holiness (qaddîysh) underscores His absolute distinctness and superiority to all creation.
* **Consecration and Dedication:** To be holy is to be dedicated or set apart for God's exclusive use or purpose.
* **Divine Presence:** The concept of holiness is intrinsically linked to the presence of God, as seen in the sanctuary or in the lives of those consecrated to Him.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6922}}` (qaddîysh) is profound, particularly within the eschatological framework of Daniel:
* **God's Absolute Holiness:** The term implicitly points to God as the ultimate "Holy One," from whom all other holiness derives. His holiness is His essence, His moral perfection, and His transcendent otherness.
* **The Nature of Divine Beings:** Angels are called "holy ones" because they are pure, set apart for God's service, and inhabit His holy presence. They reflect aspects of divine holiness in their being and function.
* **The Identity and Destiny of God's People:** The application of qaddîysh to "the saints of the Most High" in Daniel 7 is a cornerstone of biblical eschatology. It signifies that despite persecution and suffering, God's people are uniquely set apart by Him. Their "holiness" is not necessarily a reflection of their inherent moral perfection, but rather their chosen status, their covenant relationship with the Holy God, and their ultimate destiny to inherit His eternal kingdom. This concept anticipates the New Testament understanding of believers as "saints" (hagioi, `{{G40}}`), set apart by God for His purposes and called to live lives reflecting His character.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Vindication:** The triumph of the "saints" over the worldly powers in Daniel 7 demonstrates God's ultimate sovereignty and His commitment to vindicate His set-apart people, establishing His righteous rule through them.
### Summary
`{{H6922}}` (qaddîysh) is an Aramaic term directly corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H6918}}` (qādôsh), signifying "holy," "sacred," or "set apart." Predominantly found in Daniel, it describes both divine beings (angels/watchers) who serve God's decrees and, most significantly, "the saints of the Most High"—God's chosen people. Theologically, qaddîysh underscores God's inherent holiness and transcendence, the consecrated nature of His heavenly servants, and the distinct identity and glorious eschatological destiny of His people, who are set apart by Him to inherit His eternal kingdom.
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