The Aramaic word ribbôw, represented by H7240, corresponds to a myriad, meaning an indefinitely large number. It appears 2 times across 1 unique verse in the Bible. It is used idiomatically to express the immense quantity of "ten thousand times ten thousand".
In its sole biblical context, H7240 is used to paint a picture of the immense scale of the heavenly court. Daniel's vision describes a divine scene where "thousand thousands ministered unto him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him" Daniel 7:10. This repetition emphasizes the uncountable number of beings present, gathered as "the judgment was set, and the books were opened," highlighting the solemnity and majesty of the moment.
Several related words from its context help illuminate its meaning:
- H506 ʼălaph (thousand): This word for thousand is used immediately preceding ribbôw to begin quantifying the vast heavenly host, building up to the even greater number that H7240 represents Daniel 7:10.
- H6966 qûwm (to rise... stand, set up): This verb describes the action of the countless multitude, which "stood before him," signifying their role as an attentive assembly in the divine presence Daniel 7:10.
- H1780 dîyn (judgement): This term defines the entire event, establishing that the myriad hosts are gathered because "judgment was set" Daniel 7:10, framing the scene as a celestial court proceeding.
- H3488 yᵉthib (to sit or dwell): Used to state that "the judgment was set" Daniel 7:10, this word works in concert with H1780 to establish the formal, authoritative nature of the gathering witnessed by Daniel.
The theological weight of H7240 is concentrated in its single appearance, providing a glimpse into the nature of the divine realm.
- Innumerable Heavenly Host: The term is used to convey the vast, uncountable number of angelic beings who serve and stand before God, emphasizing His supreme majesty and the immense scale of His dominion Daniel 7:10.
- The Scale of Divine Judgment: By quantifying the witnesses to the divine court as "ten thousand times ten thousand," the vision underscores the ultimate and comprehensive nature of God's judgment Daniel 7:10.
- Apocalyptic Imagery: The use of such a large, indefinite number is characteristic of apocalyptic literature, serving to describe heavenly realities that are beyond human language and finite comprehension.
In summary, H7240 ribbôw is a powerful Aramaic term for a number so large it is effectively countless. Its singular use in Daniel 7:10 is not for a literal enumeration but to create a vivid image of the staggering immensity of the heavenly court. It conveys the infinite majesty of God, who is ministered to by a host beyond measure in a scene of ultimate divine judgment.
TRV