### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **qᵉṭal**, represented by `{{H6992}}`, is the counterpart to the Hebrew קָטַל and means **to kill** or **slay**. It is a specific and potent term that appears 7 times within 6 unique verses, exclusively in the book of Daniel. Its usage highlights themes of absolute authority and final judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6992}}` consistently depicts the execution of power. It is used in the context of royal decrees, such as the order to **slay** all the wise men of Babylon when they could not interpret the king's dream [[Daniel 2:13-14]]. The term also defines the scope of a monarch's authority, as seen with Nebuchadnezzar, of whom it was said, "whom he would he **slew**; and whom he would he kept alive" [[Daniel 5:19]]. The word marks pivotal moments of judgment, including the death of Belshazzar, who was **slain** on the night his kingdom fell [[Daniel 5:30]], and the prophetic vision where a great beast is **slain** and its body destroyed by fire [[Daniel 7:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the act of slaying and the authority behind it:
* `{{H2418}}` **chăyâʼ** (to live, keep alive): This word stands in direct opposition to `{{H6992}}`, often appearing in the same context to illustrate the complete power over life and death wielded by a king [[Daniel 5:19]].
* `{{H7}}` **ʼăbad** (destroy, perish): This term often describes the consequence of being slain, emphasizing total annihilation. After the beast was slain, its body was **destroyed** [[Daniel 7:11]].
* `{{H1156}}` **bᵉʻâʼ** (to seek or ask): This word can illustrate the intent that leads to the act of killing. For example, Daniel and his friends were **sought** for the purpose of being slain under the king's decree [[Daniel 2:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6992}}` is demonstrated through its specific applications in Daniel.
* **Absolute Human Authority:** The word is used to portray the immense and fearsome power of earthly rulers. The authority to **slay** at will was a defining characteristic of a king's majesty, causing all people and nations to tremble and fear before him [[Daniel 5:19]].
* **Divine Judgment on Worldly Powers:** In prophetic visions, the term signifies God's ultimate judgment. The fourth beast, representing a terrifying earthly kingdom, is ultimately **slain** and given to the burning flame, showing that God's authority supersedes all human power [[Daniel 7:11]].
* **Instrument of Consequence:** Slaying is presented as a direct result of royal commands. The men who threw Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego into the furnace were themselves **slain** by the flame due to the urgency of the king's commandment [[Daniel 3:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6992}}` is a term of finality and power. Though its usage is rare, its appearance in the book of Daniel is critical for understanding themes of authority, both human and divine. It illustrates the life-and-death power wielded by ancient kings while also serving as a vehicle for demonstrating God's ultimate sovereignty and judgment over the kingdoms of the world.
TRV