### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rêʼsh**, represented by `{{H7217}}`, is the Aramaic correspondent to the Hebrew רֹאשׁ. It primarily means **the head**, but is also used figuratively for **the sum** or a **chief**. It appears 14 times across 13 unique verses, predominantly in the books of Daniel and Ezra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H7217}}` carries both a literal and a metaphorical weight. It literally refers to the physical head, as seen in the prophetic visions given to Daniel, such as "the visions of my **head** upon my bed" [[Daniel 4:13]]. It is also used to describe the head of the great image in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, which was made of gold [[Daniel 2:32]]. Figuratively, the word signifies leadership and preeminence. Daniel tells King Nebuchadnezzar, "Thou art this **head** of gold" [[Daniel 2:38]], identifying him as the supreme ruler. In another context, it is used to denote the principal individuals or leaders, as in the request to identify "the men that were the **chief** of them" [[Ezra 5:10]]. The word can also mean "the sum," as when Daniel "told the **sum** of the matters" of his dream [[Daniel 7:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide additional context for the imagery associated with `{{H7217}}`:
* `{{H1722}}` **dᵉhab** (gold; gold(-en)): This precious metal is directly associated with the most prominent part of Nebuchadnezzar's visionary statue, whose **head** was made of fine **gold** [[Daniel 2:32]].
* `{{H8177}}` **sᵉʻar** (hair; hair): This word is used to describe the **hair** of the **head**, as in the vision of the Ancient of days [[Daniel 7:9]] and in the miraculous preservation of the three men in the furnace, where not a **hair** of their **head** was singed [[Daniel 3:27]].
* `{{H7162}}` **qeren** (a horn (literally or for sound); horn, cornet): In Daniel's visions, horns are a key feature on the **head** of the beasts, symbolizing power and kingdoms [[Daniel 7:20]].
* `{{H324}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** (prince): This term for a high-ranking official relates to the figurative use of **rêʼsh** as "chief." These **princes** were among the officials who witnessed God's protection of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego [[Daniel 3:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7217}}` is most evident in the book of Daniel:
* **Prophetic Representation of Kingdoms:** The word is central to Nebuchadnezzar's dream, where the image's **head** of gold represents the Babylonian kingdom, the first and foremost of the world empires in the vision [[Daniel 2:38]]. The multiple **heads** on the visionary beasts also represent seats of dominion and power [[Daniel 7:6]].
* **Symbol of Divine Majesty:** In the vision of the heavenly court, the "Ancient of days" is depicted with **hair** on his **head** like pure wool, a feature signifying wisdom, purity, and eternal glory [[Daniel 7:9]].
* **Manifestation of God's Sovereignty:** God's power over worldly authority is demonstrated when not a hair of the **head** of the faithful men is singed by the fire [[Daniel 3:27]], showing that the "chiefs" and kings of the earth are subject to a higher power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7217}}` is a crucial Aramaic term that functions on multiple levels. While often referring to the literal head, its greater significance lies in its metaphorical application. It serves as a powerful symbol in prophetic visions to denote the primary kingdom, a leader, or a position of authority. Through its use, scripture conveys profound truths about the rise and fall of earthly empires and the ultimate, unending sovereignty of God.
TRV