(Aramaic) corresponding to רוּם; {to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)}; extol, lift up (self), set up.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rûwm**, represented by `{{H7313}}`, is a term for being high, rising, or raising up. Its definition includes actions like to **extol**, **lift up** (self), or **set up**. This word appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Daniel, where it illustrates a sharp contrast between human pride and divine authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7313}}` carries a dual meaning depending on the subject. It is used negatively to describe the arrogance of kings. Belshazzar is condemned because he did **lift up** himself against the Lord of heaven [[Daniel 5:23]]. Similarly, a king's heart was **lifted up** and his mind hardened in pride, leading to his downfall [[Daniel 5:20]]. In a positive context, King Nebuchadnezzar uses the word to **extol** the King of heaven after being humbled [[Daniel 4:37]]. The word also describes sovereign power, as an earthly king had the authority to **set up** whom he wished [[Daniel 5:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the concept of being lifted up:
* `{{H8214}}` **shᵉphal** (abase, humble, put down): This word functions as a direct antonym. A king can **set up** `{{H7313}}` or **put down** `{{H8214}}` others [[Daniel 5:19]], and God is able to **abase** `{{H8214}}` those who walk in pride [[Daniel 4:37]].
* `{{H1922}}` **hădar** (glorify, honour): This term is used for proper worship. Nebuchadnezzar chose to **extol** `{{H7313}}` and **honour** `{{H1922}}` God [[Daniel 4:37]], whereas Belshazzar lifted himself up but failed to **glorify** `{{H1922}}` God [[Daniel 5:23]].
* `{{H2103}}` **zûwd** (in pride): This word describes the inner state that leads to improper self-exaltation. It is when a king's heart was **lifted up** `{{H7313}}` and his mind hardened **in pride** `{{H2103}}` that he was deposed from his throne [[Daniel 5:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7313}}` centers on the conflict between divine sovereignty and human arrogance.
* **The Peril of Pride:** The word is used to warn against self-exaltation. A heart that is **lifted up** `{{H7313}}` in defiance of God leads to judgment and the loss of power and glory ([[Daniel 5:20]], [[Daniel 5:23]]).
* **The Action of Worship:** The correct use of exaltation is directed toward God. After his humiliation, Nebuchadnezzar demonstrates true understanding when he chooses to **extol** `{{H7313}}` and praise the King of heaven [[Daniel 4:37]].
* **Sovereign Authority:** The power to **set up** `{{H7313}}` is an attribute of kingship, both human and divine. However, the narrative shows that earthly authority is delegated and can be revoked by God, who abases those who lift themselves up.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7313}}` is a pivotal word in the book of Daniel for understanding the dynamics of power. It serves as a sharp illustration of a core biblical theme: exalting oneself leads to being humbled, while humbling oneself before God is the path to offering Him proper worship. The word contrasts the fleeting authority of human rulers, who can **set up** and put down, with the ultimate authority of God, who judges the proud.
TRV