(Aramaic) from קוּם; permanent (as rising firmly); stedfast, sure.
Transliteration:qayâm
Pronunciation:kah-yawm'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word קַיָּם (qayâm, `{{H7011}}`) is derived from the root קוּם (qum), which means "to rise," "to stand," or "to establish." This etymological connection is crucial, as it imbues qayâm with the sense of something that is not merely existing, but *firmly established* and therefore enduring. Its core meaning encompasses concepts of "permanent," "stedfast," "sure," and "valid." The semantic range emphasizes stability, reliability, and unchangeability, often implying an enduring, unshakeable quality, particularly in legal, covenantal, or existential contexts. It denotes a state of being fixed and unalterable.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word קַיָּם (qayâm, `{{H7011}}`) appears only once in the biblical text, in the Aramaic portion of the book of Daniel:
* **[[Daniel 6:26]]**: "I make a decree, that in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear before the God of Daniel: for he is the living God, and stedfast forever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end."
In this pivotal declaration by King Darius, qayâm is used to describe God as "stedfast forever" (קַיָּם לְעָלְמַיָּא). This statement is a profound theological affirmation, contrasting the transient nature of human kingdoms and rulers with the eternal, unchangeable reality of God. The context is Darius's recognition of God's power and faithfulness, demonstrated through Daniel's miraculous deliverance from the lions' den. The attribute of "stedfastness" (qayâm) is intrinsically linked with God's "living" nature and the enduring, indestructible character of His kingdom and dominion. It signifies not just longevity, but an inherent, unassailable stability.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding קַיָּם (qayâm, `{{H7011}}`) is enhanced by examining its linguistic relatives and conceptual parallels:
* **Hebrew/Aramaic Root קוּם (qum, `{{H6965}}`):** The foundational root from which qayâm derives. This root means "to rise," "to stand," "to establish," or "to confirm." The sense of "being established" or "standing firm" is central to qayâm's meaning of permanence.
* **Aramaic קִיּוּם (qiyyûm, `{{H6966}}`):** A related Aramaic noun, also from the root קוּם, meaning "establishment," "confirmation," or "validity." This reinforces the legal or covenantal dimension of something being firmly settled and binding.
* **Theological Concepts:**
* **Immutability:** God's unchangeable nature, a core attribute of His being.
* **Faithfulness:** God's reliability and steadfastness in keeping His promises and covenant.
* **Eternality:** God's existence outside of and beyond time, His being without beginning or end.
* **Truth and Reality:** That which is qayâm is fundamentally real, true, and dependable.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of קַיָּם (qayâm, `{{H7011}}`) in [[Daniel 6:26]] carries immense theological weight. It serves as a definitive declaration of God's intrinsic nature, portraying Him as eternally "stedfast."
1. **God's Immutable Nature:** The descriptor qayâm underscores God's unchangeable and enduring character. Unlike human beings, who are subject to frailty, change, and death, God is inherently permanent. His existence is not contingent on anything external; He is self-existent and eternally stable. This provides a bedrock of certainty in a world of flux.
2. **Foundation for Trust:** Because God is qayâm, His promises are sure, His covenant is unbreakable, and His salvation is eternally valid. This attribute forms the ultimate basis for human trust and confidence in the Divine. The steadfastness of God guarantees the reliability of His word and His actions throughout history.
3. **Contrast with Earthly Powers:** In the context of Daniel, the declaration of God as qayâm stands in stark contrast to the transient and ultimately doomed empires of the world, including Babylon and Persia. Earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but God's kingdom and dominion are qayâm—they "shall not be destroyed" and "shall be even unto the end" ([[Daniel 6:26]]). This highlights the absolute sovereignty and eternal reign of the Lord over all human endeavors.
4. **Living God:** The phrase "living God, and stedfast forever" (אֱלָהָא חַיָּא וְקַיָּם לְעָלְמַיָּא) emphasizes that God's permanence is not a static, lifeless quality, but the dynamic, active steadfastness of a living Being who intervenes in human affairs and delivers His people.
### Summary
The Aramaic word קַיָּם (qayâm, `{{H7011}}`) signifies that which is "permanent," "stedfast," and "sure," rooted in the concept of "rising firmly" or "being firmly established." Though it appears only once in the biblical text, in [[Daniel 6:26]], its usage is profoundly significant. It describes God as "stedfast forever," articulating His immutable, eternal, and unshakeable nature. This attribute of God as qayâm provides the ultimate foundation for faith, assuring believers of His unwavering reliability, His enduring promises, and the eternal security of His kingdom. It stands as a powerful testament to the absolute trustworthiness and unchanging character of the Divine in contrast to all that is temporal and fleeting.
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