(Aramaic) corresponding to קוֹל; {a voice or sound}; sound, voice.
Transliteration:qâl
Pronunciation:kawl
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term H7032 (qâl) denotes an audible emanation, encompassing both "voice" and "sound." Its definition explicitly states its correspondence to the more frequently occurring Hebrew word H6963 (qôl). As such, H7032 carries a similar semantic range, referring to any auditory phenomenon, whether it be human speech, a divine utterance, or the noise produced by objects or nature. It signifies that which can be perceived by the ear, making it fundamental to concepts of communication, revelation, and the perception of the environment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Occurring exclusively within the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, primarily in the book of Daniel, H7032 (qâl) is used to describe various forms of sound.
In Daniel 3, the term frequently appears in relation to the "sound" of musical instruments ([[Daniel 3:5]], [[Daniel 3:7]], [[Daniel 3:10]], [[Daniel 3:15]]). This "sound" served as the signal for all people to prostrate themselves and worship Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. Here, qâl highlights the external, sensory impetus for forced worship, contrasting with the internal conviction of true faith demonstrated by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. The "voice" of the herald who proclaims the king's decree also uses H7032 ([[Daniel 3:4]]), emphasizing the authoritative, public nature of the command.
A profoundly significant occurrence is in [[Daniel 4:31]], where a "voice" (qâl) falls from heaven, pronouncing judgment upon King Nebuchadnezzar for his pride. This divine qâl represents God's direct, unmistakable intervention in human affairs, demonstrating His ultimate sovereignty over earthly rulers.
Furthermore, H7032 describes the "voice" of King Belshazzar ([[Daniel 5:7]]) as he cries aloud for his wise men to interpret the handwriting on the wall, and the "lamentable voice" of King Darius ([[Daniel 6:20]]) when he approaches the lions' den to check on Daniel. In these instances, qâl conveys the human expression of authority, fear, and lament, highlighting the emotional and communicative aspects of the human voice, even in the context of royal power.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and stated cognate for H7032 (qâl) is the Hebrew H6963 (qôl). Both terms share the core meaning of "voice" or "sound" and are used interchangeably across their respective linguistic contexts in the biblical text. The conceptual parallels extend to:
* **Speech and Communication:** Both qâl and qôl are foundational to expressing thoughts, commands, and emotions, whether human or divine.
* **Divine Revelation:** The "voice of God" or "voice from heaven" is a recurring motif in Scripture, signifying divine presence, command, and judgment.
* **Worship and Idolatry:** The use of qâl for musical sounds often relates to contexts of worship, whether legitimate or idolatrous, underscoring the role of auditory elements in religious practice.
* **Authority and Power:** The voice of kings or heralds often conveys their decrees and authority, though always implicitly subject to a higher, divine voice.
### Theological Significance
The theological import of H7032 (qâl) is particularly vivid in the book of Daniel. The "voice from heaven" in [[Daniel 4:31]] is a powerful manifestation of God's sovereign rule over all earthly kingdoms and rulers. It underscores the biblical truth that even the most powerful human potentates are accountable to the divine authority. This divine qâl serves as an instrument of both judgment and revelation, demonstrating God's active involvement in history and His ability to humble the proud.
Conversely, the "sound" of musical instruments in Daniel 3, which compels idolatrous worship, highlights the deceptive and coercive nature of human systems that seek to usurp God's rightful place. The contrast between the humanly orchestrated "sound" for false worship and the divine "voice" of ultimate authority is stark. It underscores the distinction between forced external conformity and genuine internal devotion. The word thus contributes to the overarching theme of divine sovereignty, the clash between true worship and idolatry, and the ultimate triumph of God's will over human defiance.
### Summary
H7032 (qâl) is an Aramaic term signifying "voice" or "sound," directly corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H6963}}`. Its occurrences in Daniel illuminate critical theological themes. It describes both human and divine auditory phenomena, ranging from the authoritative pronouncements of kings and heralds to the compelling sounds of musical instruments used in idolatrous worship. Most significantly, it denotes the powerful "voice from heaven" that demonstrates God's absolute sovereignty and direct intervention in human affairs. Thus, qâl serves as a potent reminder of divine authority, the nature of true worship, and the ultimate accountability of all creation before the Creator.
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