(Aramaic) corresponding to קָדוֹשׁ.; {sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) God (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary}; holy (One), saint.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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