### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rᵉgal**, represented by `{{H7271}}`, means **foot**. It appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses**, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel. Its usage is primarily symbolic, referring to the foundation of empires and the actions of visionary beasts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H7271}}` is central to two major prophetic visions in Daniel. First, it describes the **feet** of the great image in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, which were a mixture of iron and clay, signifying a divided and unstable foundation ([[Daniel 2:33]], [[Daniel 2:41]]). It is upon these **feet** that a stone cut without hands strikes, causing the entire image to be broken to pieces [[Daniel 2:34]]. Later, in Daniel's own vision, the term is used to describe the **feet** of beasts, including a dreadful fourth beast that "stamped the residue with the **feet** of it" [[Daniel 7:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller picture of the context in which **rᵉgal** is used:
* `{{H8243}}` **shâq** (leg): This word appears in direct anatomical connection to the **feet**. The image in Daniel's vision is described with **legs** of iron and **feet** of iron and clay [[Daniel 2:33]].
* `{{H677}}` **'etsbaʻ** (toe): This term, meaning a **toe** or finger, is used to further detail the composition of the image's foundation, highlighting that the **toes** of the **feet** were a mix of iron and clay [[Daniel 2:42]].
* `{{H7512}}` **rᵉphaç** (stamp): This verb describes the action of the fourth beast, which used its **feet** to **stamp**, or trample, the remains of what it devoured [[Daniel 7:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7271}}` is tied to its symbolic role in prophecy.
* **Foundation and Vulnerability:** The **feet** of the great image represent the final state of worldly kingdoms. Their composition of iron `{{H6523}}` mixed with clay `{{H2635}}` signifies a kingdom that is divided `{{H6386}}` and inherently unstable, being partly strong `{{H8624}}` and partly broken `{{H8406}}` [[Daniel 2:41-42]].
* **Instrument of Domination:** For the fourth beast, its **feet** are weapons. It uses them to **stamp** `{{H7512}}` the residue, symbolizing absolute and brutal subjugation of its enemies ([[Daniel 7:7]], [[Daniel 7:19]]).
* **Transformation of Nature:** The first beast, like a lion, is lifted from the earth and made to stand upon its **feet** as a man `{{H606}}`. This action, paired with receiving a man's heart `{{H3825}}`, signifies a fundamental change in the beast's character and posture [[Daniel 7:4]].
### Summary
In summary, **rᵉgal** `{{H7271}}` is a term whose significance extends far beyond its literal meaning of **foot**. Within the prophetic context of Daniel, it serves as a powerful symbol for the foundations of empires, their inherent weaknesses, and their capacity for both destructive power and radical transformation. Though its usage is rare, it is crucial for understanding the prophetic imagery of the book of Daniel.
TRV