### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **qᵉyâm**, represented by `{{H7010}}`, refers to an edict or decree. It is derived from the Aramaic word `{{H6966}}` **qûwm**, which means {to rise... establish, make}. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, both within the same narrative, and is defined as a statute that arises in law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7010}}` is found exclusively in the account of Daniel in the lions' den. It is first mentioned when King Darius's officials conspire to create a binding law, consulting together "to establish a royal **statute**" that would entrap Daniel [[Daniel 6:7]]. The term appears again when these same officials remind the king of the unchangeable nature of Medo-Persian law, stating that "no decree nor **statute** which the king establisheth may be changed" [[Daniel 6:15]]. In both instances, it signifies a formal, established, and irrevocable royal command.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the legal and authoritative context of **qᵉyâm**:
* `{{H6966}}` **qûwm**: The root of **qᵉyâm**, it means {to rise... establish, make...}. In both occurrences, this verb is used to describe the action of bringing the **statute** into being, emphasizing its official establishment by the king ([[Daniel 6:7]], [[Daniel 6:15]]).
* `{{H633}}` **ʼĕçâr**: Defined as {an interdict; decree}, this word is used in direct parallel with **qᵉyâm** in both of its appearances, forming the pair "decree nor **statute**" to describe the comprehensive nature of the royal edict ([[Daniel 6:7]], [[Daniel 6:15]]).
* `{{H1882}}` **dâth**: Meaning {a royal edict or statute; decree, law}, this word is used to describe the overarching legal framework of the Medes and Persians, under which the specific **statute** `{{H7010}}` is made unchangeable [[Daniel 6:15]].
* `{{H3606}}` **kôl**: This Aramaic term for {all, any or every} is used to define the absolute scope of the **statute**, applying to "any God or man" and clarifying that "no decree nor statute" may be altered ([[Daniel 6:7]], [[Daniel 6:15]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7010}}` is centered on the conflict between human and divine authority.
* **The Power of Human Law:** The term demonstrates the ability of earthly powers to create binding, unchangeable edicts. The royal **statute** is established with the full force of the kingdom, intended to be absolute [[Daniel 6:7]].
* **Irrevocable Edicts:** The concept of a **statute** that cannot be changed, even by the king who established it, highlights a central theme in the narrative. This immutable human law is positioned directly against Daniel's unchanging faithfulness to God's law [[Daniel 6:15]].
* **A Test of Faith:** The establishment of this **statute** serves as the primary mechanism for the test of Daniel's faith, forcing a choice between obedience to the king's command and obedience to the "law of his God" [[Daniel 6:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7010}}` is a highly specific term for a formally established and binding royal **statute**. Though its use is rare, its context within Daniel 6 is pivotal, representing the pinnacle of human law set in opposition to divine devotion. Its meaning is reinforced by its linguistic root `{{H6966}}`, meaning "to establish," and its close association with other legal terms like **ʼĕçâr** `{{H633}}` and **dâth** `{{H1882}}`, illustrating the unyielding and authoritative nature of a king's command.
TRV