### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term H7299 (רֵו, rêv) fundamentally denotes "aspect" or "form," directly stemming from a root corresponding to the Hebrew רָאָה (ra'ah, `{{H7200}}`), meaning "to see," "to look," or "to perceive." This etymological connection is crucial, as it establishes rêv as referring to that which is visible, discernible, or presented to the eye. Its semantic range thus encompasses the outward appearance, the visible shape, or the perceptible characteristic of a person or object. It describes the external manifestation, often implying how something is perceived or how it presents itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, H7299 is found exclusively within the Aramaic portions of the Book of Daniel. Its occurrences consistently highlight the visible appearance of individuals or objects, often reflecting an internal state or an external impression:
* **[[Daniel 2:31]]**: In Nebuchadnezzar's dream of the great image, Daniel describes its "form" (רֵו) as "terrible." Here, rêv refers to the imposing and awe-inspiring visual presence of the statue, emphasizing its frightful aspect. The term underscores the overwhelming impression the image made upon the beholder.
* **[[Daniel 3:19]]**: When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to worship the golden image, King Nebuchadnezzar's "form of his visage" (רֵו אַנְפּוֹהִי) was changed due to his fury. This vividly portrays the king's countenance contorted by intense rage, illustrating how inner emotion visibly alters outward appearance.
* **[[Daniel 5:6]]**: During Belshazzar's feast, when the mysterious hand writes on the wall, the king's "countenance" (רֵוֹהִי) was changed, and he was greatly terrified. Here, rêv describes the visible manifestation of extreme fear and distress on Belshazzar's face, reflecting his inner turmoil and dread.
* **[[Daniel 7:28]]**: Following Daniel's vision of the four beasts and the Ancient of Days, he states, "my countenance" (רֵוִי) was changed in me. This instance again uses rêv to describe the visible alteration of Daniel's physical appearance, likely reflecting the profound impact and deep disturbance caused by the terrifying and complex prophetic vision.
In each instance, rêv serves to describe the discernible, visible aspect of a subject, whether it be the imposing nature of a prophetic image, the tell-tale signs of human wrath and fear, or the physical manifestation of profound spiritual or mental distress.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the Hebrew root רָאָה (ra'ah, `{{H7200}}`), from which rêv is semantically derived. This root signifies "to see," "to look," "to perceive," or "to appear."
Other related terms that convey notions of appearance, form, or likeness in biblical Hebrew and Aramaic include:
* מַרְאֶה (mar'eh, `{{H4758}}`): "sight," "appearance," "vision." This term, also derived from רָאָה, often describes a visible manifestation, particularly divine visions or the appearance of God (e.g., [[Ezekiel 1:28]]).
* תְּמוּנָה (t'munah, `{{H8544}}`): "likeness," "form," "image." Used to describe a representation or similitude, often in contrast to seeing God's actual "form" (e.g., [[Numbers 12:8]]).
* צֶלֶם (tselem, `{{H6754}}`): "image," "likeness." Most famously used for humanity being created in God's image (e.g., [[Genesis 1:26]]).
* דְּמוּת (demut, `{{H1823}}`): "likeness," "similitude." Often used in conjunction with צֶלֶם or to describe the likeness of something (e.g., [[Genesis 1:26]]).
While rêv specifically points to the *visible aspect* or *outward form*, these related words contribute to the rich biblical vocabulary for describing how things are perceived, represented, or appear.
### Theological Significance
While H7299 (rêv) is primarily a descriptive term for physical appearance, its theological significance emerges from its specific contexts within the prophetic book of Daniel.
1. **Revelation and Interpretation**: In [[Daniel 2:31]], the "terrible form" of the image is not merely descriptive but is integral to the prophetic vision. Its appearance is a divine communication, requiring interpretation to understand the nature of the successive human empires. The outward form speaks volumes about the power and imposing nature of these earthly kingdoms, which are ultimately transient.
2. **Human Emotion and Divine Judgment**: The changing "form of visage" in [[Daniel 3:19]] and [[Daniel 5:6]] highlights the profound impact of human sin (pride, wrath) and divine judgment (Belshazzar's terror). The visible alteration of the kings' countenances serves as a stark physical manifestation of their inner spiritual state and the immediate consequence of their defiance or fear before God. It underscores the biblical principle that inner realities often find outward expression.
3. **Prophetic Burden**: Daniel's "changed countenance" in [[Daniel 7:28]] illustrates the deeply personal and often unsettling nature of receiving divine revelation. The weight of understanding future events and the awesome nature of God's plan can physically affect the prophet, demonstrating the gravity of God's communication and its impact on human vessels.
Thus, rêv contributes to the narrative by showing how outward appearances are not superficial but can be deeply indicative of underlying spiritual truths, human responses to divine encounters, and the nature of earthly power contrasted with God's sovereignty.
### Summary
H7299 (רֵו, rêv) is an Aramaic term derived from the root "to see," signifying "aspect," "form," or "visible appearance." Its four occurrences in the Book of Daniel consistently describe the outward manifestation of individuals or objects. From the "terrible form" of Nebuchadnezzar's prophetic statue to the visibly altered "countenances" of kings consumed by wrath or terror, and Daniel himself burdened by divine vision, rêv emphasizes the perceptible nature of significant events and profound internal states. While a descriptive term, its usage in Daniel imbues it with theological significance, illustrating how outward appearances can reflect divine revelation, human sin, and the powerful impact of God's sovereign hand on the course of history and individual lives. It serves as a reminder that what is seen can often be a potent indicator of deeper, unseen realities.
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