### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rᵉbûw**, represented by `{{H7238}}`, denotes **greatness** or **majesty**. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses, exclusively within the book of Daniel. The term is rooted in the concept of an increase in dignity, signifying the impressive status and authority of a ruler or kingdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H7238}}` is used to describe the immense power and status of rulers. It characterizes the **greatness** of King Nebuchadnezzar, which was said to have "grown, and reacheth unto heaven" [[Daniel 4:22]]. This God-given **majesty** was the source of his authority, causing all people to tremble before him [[Daniel 5:19]]. When Nebuchadnezzar's reason returned to him, "excellent **majesty** was added" unto him [[Daniel 4:36]]. The term is also applied prophetically, describing the **greatness** of the everlasting kingdom that will be given to the saints of the most High [[Daniel 7:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the concept of royal authority:
* `{{H1923}}` **hădar** (honour, majesty): This word often appears alongside `{{H7238}}` to complete the picture of royal splendor. God gave Nebuchadnezzar not only majesty but also glory and **honour** [[Daniel 5:18]].
* `{{H3367}}` **yᵉqâr** (glory, honour): Signifying value and dignity, this term is paired with majesty to describe the attributes of a king's reign. After his humbling, Nebuchadnezzar had **glory** and honour restored to his kingdom [[Daniel 4:36]].
* `{{H7985}}` **sholṭân** (dominion): This term refers to the actual empire or dominion a ruler possesses. It is linked to greatness, as seen in the description of Nebuchadnezzar’s rule, where his greatness grew and his **dominion** reached to the end of the earth [[Daniel 4:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7238}}` is centered on the nature of sovereignty.
* **God-Given Authority:** The majesty described by `{{H7238}}` is not self-made but is explicitly a gift from God. The scripture states that "the most high God gave Nebuchadnezzar a kingdom, and **majesty**" [[Daniel 5:18]], establishing that ultimate sovereignty resides with God.
* **The Power of Kingship:** The word quantifies the awesome power wielded by a monarch. It was "for the **majesty** that he gave him" that all people trembled and feared, and the king held the power of life and death [[Daniel 5:19]].
* **Eternal Kingdom's Greatness:** The concept is elevated from a temporary, earthly king to the eternal kingdom of God. The final use of the word points to the "kingdom and dominion, and the **greatness** of the kingdom" which will be given to the saints [[Daniel 7:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7238}}` provides a specific term for the overwhelming **majesty** associated with sovereign power in the book of Daniel. It defines the authority of an earthly king like Nebuchadnezzar while simultaneously emphasizing that this power is a divine grant. Ultimately, the word points forward, contrasting the temporary greatness of human empires with the eternal **greatness** of the kingdom of God.
TRV