(Aramaic) from קוּם; an edict (as arising in law); decree, statute.
Transliteration:qᵉyâm
Pronunciation:keh-yawm'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word qᵉyâm (`{{H7010}}`) is derived from the root qûm (קוּם), which fundamentally means "to rise," "to stand," "to establish," or "to confirm." This etymological connection is crucial, as qᵉyâm signifies something that "stands" or is "established" as law. Its core meaning encompasses an "edict," "decree," or "statute." It denotes a formal, authoritative pronouncement that carries legal weight and is intended to be binding and enduring. The phrase "arising in law" from its base definition emphasizes its origin from a position of authority and its subsequent establishment as a permanent and enforceable legal instrument.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, qᵉyâm (`{{H7010}}`) appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the books of Ezra and Daniel, where it consistently refers to royal decrees.
* In [[Ezra 4:21]], King Artaxerxes issues a "decree" (`{{H7010}}`) to halt the rebuilding of Jerusalem, emphasizing the king's absolute authority to issue binding commands. The repetition of the word within the verse underscores the legal force required to stop the work.
* In [[Ezra 6:11]], King Darius issues a severe "decree" (`{{H7010}}`) concerning the rebuilding of the temple, threatening extreme penalties for anyone who alters it. This highlights the inviolability and supreme binding nature of royal statutes.
* In [[Daniel 6:7]], qᵉyâm refers to the "royal statute" conspired by Daniel's adversaries, designed to trap him. It is presented as a binding law, underscoring its official and unalterable nature once issued by the king.
* Most notably, in [[Daniel 6:15]], the unalterable nature of a "decree" (`{{H7010}}`) once established by the king under Medo-Persian law is explicitly stated. This immutability is central to the dramatic tension of Daniel's trial, as the king himself is unable to revoke the edict despite his desire to save Daniel.
Across these occurrences, qᵉyâm consistently denotes a formal, binding, and often unalterable decree issued by a ruling authority, typically a king. It powerfully illustrates the absolute power and permanence of royal edicts within the Persian Empire.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **qûm (קוּם, `{{H6965}}`):** The foundational root, meaning "to rise," "to stand," "to establish," or "to confirm." This direct etymological link illuminates the established and enduring nature of a qᵉyâm; a decree "stands" as law.
* **dāṯ (דָּת, `{{H1881}}`):** Another Aramaic word frequently translated as "law," "decree," or "statute." While qᵉyâm specifically points to an *edict* or *statute* that has been *established*, dāṯ can refer to a broader body of law or a specific legal principle. They are closely related and sometimes used in conjunction to emphasize legal authority.
* **ṭəʿēm (טְעֵם, `{{H2942}}`):** An Aramaic verb meaning "to command" or "to decree," describing the action of issuing a qᵉyâm.
* **Covenant (בְּרִית, bᵉrît, `{{H1285}}`):** While qᵉyâm refers to human royal decrees, the theological concept of a binding, unalterable divine decree (covenant) resonates thematically. God's word and promises are likewise established and enduring.
### Theological Significance
Although qᵉyâm pertains to human, often pagan, royal decrees, its consistent portrayal as an unalterable and supremely authoritative command carries profound theological implications.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Law:** The unchangeable nature of a qᵉyâm in Persian law serves as a powerful earthly analogy for the immutable and sovereign decrees of God. Just as a human king's word, once established, could not be revoked (as seen in Daniel 6), so much more are God's divine decrees eternal and unchangeable. His word "stands forever" ([[Isaiah 40:8]]).
* **God's Faithfulness:** The steadfastness implied by qᵉyâm (derived from qûm, "to stand firm") points to God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises and covenants. His decrees are not subject to the whims of human change or political maneuvering.
* **Justice and Judgment:** The decrees issued by kings, though sometimes unjust (like the one against Daniel), highlight the concept of law and its enforcement. This provides a backdrop for understanding divine justice and the ultimate, righteous judgments of God. Even when human decrees are flawed, they point to a universal need for order and accountability, which finds its perfect expression in God's perfect law.
* **Providential Control:** The narrative in Daniel, where a qᵉyâm is used by adversaries to trap Daniel, ultimately demonstrates God's providential control. Despite the seemingly unalterable human decree, God intervenes to deliver His servant, showing that His ultimate qᵉyâm (His will and purpose) transcends and overrules all human authority.
### Summary
The Aramaic word qᵉyâm (`{{H7010}}`) denotes a formal, binding, and authoritative "edict," "decree," or "statute," rooted in the concept of something that "stands" or is "established." Its occurrences exclusively in the books of Ezra and Daniel consistently refer to unalterable royal decrees issued by Persian kings, reflecting the absolute power and permanence of monarchical authority. The study of qᵉyâm offers a powerful earthly parallel to the unchanging and sovereign decrees of God, underscoring His faithfulness, the eternal nature of His word, and His ultimate providential control over all human authorities and their laws. It highlights that while human qᵉyâm can be binding, God's divine qᵉyâm is eternally supreme and unyielding.
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