### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **qᵉrêb**, represented by `{{H7127}}`, corresponds to the Hebrew קָרַב and means to **approach** or, causatively, to **bring near** for any purpose. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Aramaic portions of Scripture, often denoting a significant movement toward a person, place, or object of consequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7127}}` is used to describe both physical proximity and the presentation of offerings. It depicts characters moving toward a focal point, such as when the Chaldeans **came near** to accuse the Jews [[Daniel 3:8]] or when King Nebuchadnezzar **came near** to the mouth of the fiery furnace [[Daniel 3:26]]. In a liturgical sense, it is used for the act of presenting sacrifices, as when a hundred bullocks and other animals were **offered** at the dedication of the house of God [[Ezra 6:17]]. The word also carries a profound theological weight in Daniel's vision, where the Son of man is **brought him near** before the Ancient of days [[Daniel 7:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the action of approaching:
* `{{H1934}}` **hâvâʼ** (to exist; be): This word is used in a great variety of applications and appears with `{{H7127}}` to form the phrase "may offer" `{H1934}{H7127}` sacrifices to God [[Ezra 6:10]], linking the state of being with the action of presentation.
* `{{H4291}}` **mᵉṭâʼ** (to arrive, extend or happen; come, reach): In Daniel's vision, the Son of man first **came** `{H4291}` to the Ancient of days before being brought near [[Daniel 7:13]], suggesting arrival as a precursor to formal presentation.
* `{{H7066}}` **qᵉnâʼ** (to purchase; buy): This term is linked to `{{H7127}}` in Ezra's commission, where he is told to **buy** `{H7066}` animals and then **offer** `{H7127}` them upon the altar [[Ezra 7:17]].
* `{{H7170}}` **qᵉrats** ([phrase] accuse): This word clarifies the hostile intent behind an approach, as when the Chaldeans **came near** `{H7127}` and **accused** `{H7170}` the Jews [[Daniel 3:8]].
* `{{H858}}` **ʼâthâh** ({to arrive}; (be-) come, bring): Similar to `{{H4291}}`, this word describes the arrival of the Son of man who **came** `{H858}` with the clouds before being brought near [[Daniel 7:13]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H7127}}` often carries significant purpose, whether judicial or theological.
* **Approaching for a Verdict:** The word is frequently used in legal or royal settings. The Chaldeans **came near** to make a formal accusation [[Daniel 3:8]], and others **came near** to the king to confirm his unalterable decree [[Daniel 6:12]].
* **Approaching for Worship:** The term is central to the act of sacrifice and worship. It is used for the command to **offer** sacrifices on the altar of God's house in Jerusalem [[Ezra 7:17]] and for the dedication offerings made for all Israel [[Ezra 6:17]].
* **Approaching the Divine Presence:** The most profound uses of `{{H7127}}` involve approaching a divine or supernatural scene. Daniel **came near** to a heavenly being to ask for the truth of his vision [[Daniel 7:16]], and the Son of man is **brought him near** into the very presence of the Ancient of days [[Daniel 7:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7127}}` is a dynamic Aramaic term that signifies more than simple movement. It describes a purposeful approach, connecting the physical act of drawing close with consequential actions like accusation, royal consultation, and sacred offerings. From a king approaching a den of lions [[Daniel 6:20]] to the presentation of the Son of man before the Ancient of days [[Daniel 7:13]], **qᵉrêb** marks a pivotal moment of encounter.
TRV