(Aramaic) from a root corresponding to קָדַם; first; first.
Transliteration:qadmay
Pronunciation:kad-mah'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H6933}}` (qadmay), transliterated as "qadmay," carries the fundamental meaning of "first" or "former." It is derived from a root corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H6923}}` (qadam), which signifies "to go before," "to precede," or "to meet." As an adjective, qadmay primarily functions to denote position in a sequence, whether temporal (earliest in time) or ordinal (foremost in a series). Its semantic range is thus tightly focused on establishing precedence or initial status within a given context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, `{{H6933}}` appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, specifically within the prophetic visions concerning world empires. Its occurrences are limited but highly significant for understanding the chronological and sequential nature of these prophecies.
* **[[Daniel 7:4]]**: "The first (קַדְמַיָא - qadmayya', plural definite) was like a lion, and had eagle's wings..." Here, qadmay clearly identifies the initial beast in Daniel's vision of four great beasts, which symbolize successive kingdoms. It establishes a clear ordinal position, marking the beginning of the prophetic sequence.
* **[[Daniel 7:24]]**: "...and he shall be diverse from the first (קַדְמָיֵא - qadmaye', plural definite), and he shall subdue three kings." In this instance, qadmay refers back to the earlier horns (kings) that precede the "other" horn. It serves to distinguish the unique nature of a later entity by contrasting it with those that came "first" or "before."
In both contexts, qadmay is crucial for establishing the sequential order of events and entities within Daniel's apocalyptic visions. It is not merely a descriptive adjective but a key indicator of the unfolding divine plan through historical succession.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic `{{H6933}}` is intimately connected to its Hebrew cognate `{{H6923}}` (qadam), which also conveys the idea of precedence, going before, or being ancient. This root is foundational to a family of words in both languages that denote priority, antiquity, or position.
Related Hebrew terms include:
* `{{H6924}}` (qedem): "east," "ancient time," "before," often referring to primordial or past times.
* `{{H7225}}` (re'shith): "beginning," "firstfruit," "chief," denoting the start of something or its preeminent part.
* `{{H7218}}` (ro'sh): "head," "top," "chief," "first," indicating leadership, origin, or primary importance.
The concept of "first" is paramount in biblical thought, extending beyond mere chronology to encompass ideas of divine priority, preeminence, and the establishment of foundational principles. While qadmay specifically marks ordinal position, it resonates with the broader biblical understanding of God's ordered creation and His sovereign direction of history.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6933}}` is a descriptive term for sequence, its theological significance arises powerfully from its context in Daniel's prophecies. The identification of "the first" kingdom or "the first" set of kings underscores the divine ordering of history. God is not merely reacting to human events but has a predetermined sequence for the rise and fall of empires, culminating in His eternal kingdom.
The use of qadmay in Daniel 7 emphasizes:
1. **Divine Sovereignty:** The precise designation of "the first" (and subsequent) entities in the vision highlights God's absolute control over the course of human history and the succession of world powers.
2. **Prophetic Certainty:** The sequential nature implied by qadmay assures the reader of the reliability and unfolding accuracy of God's prophetic word. What is "first" is part of a larger, divinely orchestrated narrative.
3. **Contrast and Distinction:** By identifying "the first," the text sets a baseline for comparison, emphasizing the unique characteristics of subsequent entities, particularly the final, anti-God power. This distinction serves to illuminate the nature of evil and God's ultimate triumph over it.
Thus, qadmay contributes to the overall theological message of Daniel: God's kingdom will ultimately supersede all earthly powers, following a divinely appointed sequence.
### Summary
`{{H6933}}` (qadmay) is an Aramaic adjective meaning "first" or "former," derived from a root signifying "to go before." Its primary function is to establish ordinal or temporal precedence. Found exclusively in the book of Daniel, qadmay is crucial for understanding the sequential nature of the prophetic visions, particularly in [[Daniel 7:4]] and [[Daniel 7:24]], where it marks the initial entities in a series of world empires or kings. Theologically, its usage underscores God's sovereign control over history, the predetermined unfolding of prophetic events, and the ultimate triumph of His divine order over all earthly powers. It serves as a precise indicator of the divinely orchestrated sequence within God's comprehensive plan.
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