(Aramaic) corresponding to קֶרֶן; a horn (literally or for sound); horn, cornet.
Transliteration:qeren
Pronunciation:keh'-ren
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic noun qeren (`{{H7162}}`) directly corresponds to the Hebrew qeren (`{{H7161}}`), sharing its fundamental semantic range. Its primary meaning is "horn," referring to the anatomical projection on the head of certain animals. From this literal sense, qeren extends metaphorically to denote power, strength, and authority, as horns were often associated with the might of an animal. Furthermore, it can refer to a musical instrument, specifically a wind instrument made from a horn, akin to a trumpet or cornet, used for signaling or musical accompaniment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, qeren (`{{H7162}}`) appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Old Testament, primarily within the Book of Daniel. Its usage in Daniel is particularly significant for prophetic interpretation.
* In Daniel's visions, qeren frequently symbolizes kings or kingdoms, representing their power and dominion. For instance, the four horns of the goat in [[Daniel 8:8]] are interpreted as four kingdoms that will arise. The "little horn" that emerges from one of these (e.g., [[Daniel 7:8]], [[Daniel 7:20-21]], [[Daniel 8:9-10]]) is a crucial prophetic figure, embodying oppressive power and rebellion against God. Here, the horn is not merely a symbol of strength but specifically of aggressive, dominating authority.
* In [[Daniel 3:5]], [[Daniel 3:7]], [[Daniel 3:10]], and [[Daniel 3:15]], qeren refers to a musical instrument, often translated as "cornet" or "horn." It is listed among the instruments whose sound commanded worship of Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. This usage highlights the role of the horn in public ceremonies and religious rituals, emphasizing its capacity to gather and direct people through sound.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct cognate is the Hebrew qeren (`{{H7161}}`), which shares the same range of meanings and is far more prevalent in the Hebrew Bible. The Hebrew qeren is used literally for animal horns (e.g., [[Genesis 22:13]]), for the corners of altars (e.g., [[Exodus 27:2]]), and as a potent symbol of strength, power, and exaltation (e.g., [[1 Samuel 2:1]], [[Psalm 75:4]], [[Psalm 132:17]]). The concept of "raising the horn" signifies triumph and increased power.
Other related concepts include:
* **Strength/Power:** Words like koach (`{{H3581}}`, strength), oz (`{{H5797}}`, strength, might), and yad (`{{H3027}}`, hand, often symbolizing power) resonate with the metaphorical use of qeren.
* **Musical Instruments:** The shofar (`{{H7782}}`, ram's horn trumpet) and chatzozterah (`{{H2689}}`, silver trumpet) are related instruments, sharing the function of sound production for signaling, worship, and warfare.
* **Authority/Dominion:** Terms like malkut (`{{H4438}}`, kingdom, royalty) and memshalah (`{{H4475}}`, dominion, rule) are conceptually linked to the qeren when it symbolizes political power.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of qeren (`{{H7162}}`) is primarily derived from its usage in Daniel, where it becomes a pivotal symbol in eschatological prophecy.
* **Divine Power vs. Worldly Power:** While horns can represent legitimate power, in Daniel, they often depict the oppressive, worldly powers that rise against God's people and His divine rule. The "little horn" is particularly significant, embodying an anti-God force that speaks arrogantly against the Most High, persecutes the saints, and attempts to change times and laws ([[Daniel 7:25]]). This figure foreshadows later antichrist figures in New Testament prophecy.
* **Exaltation and Humiliation:** The raising of a horn signifies exaltation and victory, while the cutting off or breaking of a horn signifies humiliation and defeat. This imagery underscores God's sovereignty over earthly kingdoms, demonstrating His ability to raise up and cast down rulers according to His will ([[Daniel 2:21]], [[Daniel 4:17]]).
* **Worship and Idolatry:** The use of the horn as a musical instrument in [[Daniel 3]] highlights the role of sound in worship. However, in this context, it is used to compel idolatrous worship of a human-made image, contrasting with the proper use of instruments in the worship of the true God. This serves as a warning against compelled worship and the dangers of human authority usurping divine authority.
### Summary
The Aramaic term qeren (`{{H7162}}`), corresponding to the Hebrew qeren (`{{H7161}}`), denotes a "horn" with a rich semantic range encompassing literal animal horns, musical instruments, and, most profoundly, a symbol of power, strength, and authority. Its primary biblical occurrences in the Book of Daniel are crucial for understanding its theological weight, where horns frequently represent kingdoms and rulers. While capable of signifying legitimate strength, qeren in Daniel often portrays oppressive worldly powers, particularly the "little horn" that defies God. The term also appears as a musical instrument, underscoring its role in public life, including both true worship and idolatrous compulsion. Thus, qeren serves as a potent symbol of both earthly might and the eschatological conflict between human rebellion and divine sovereignty.
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