### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **râz**, represented by `{{H7328}}`, defines a **mystery** or **secret**. It appears 9 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. The term refers to a hidden matter, particularly one that is inaccessible to human wisdom and requires divine power to be understood or uncovered.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7328}}` is found exclusively in the book of Daniel and is central to the account of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream. When the king's wise men are unable to reveal his dream, Daniel states that the **secret** cannot be shown by them [[Daniel 2:27]]. Instead, he explains that "there is a God in heaven that revealeth **secrets**" [[Daniel 2:28]]. The term is used for the **secret** itself, which was revealed to Daniel in a night vision, prompting him to bless the God of heaven [[Daniel 2:19]]. Ultimately, the king acknowledges that Daniel's God is a "revealer of **secrets**" after Daniel successfully recounts and interprets the dream [[Daniel 2:47]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of a divinely held secret:
* `{{H1541}}` **gᵉlâh** (reveal): This word is the action counterpart to `{{H7328}}`. A **secret** is something that must be **revealed**, and God is identified as the one who performs this act [[Daniel 2:28]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God): God is presented as the sole source with the ability to unveil a **secret**. The narrative repeatedly contrasts the inability of men with the power of **God** to reveal the mystery [[Daniel 2:47]].
* `{{H3046}}` **yᵉdaʻ** (to know): The purpose of revealing a **secret** is to **make known** information that was previously hidden, such as the thoughts of the king's heart or what will happen in the future [[Daniel 2:30]].
* `{{H2376}}` **chêzêv** (a vision): The medium through which the **secret** is revealed to Daniel is a night **vision**, linking the hidden knowledge to a supernatural means of communication [[Daniel 2:19]].
* `{{H6591}}` **pᵉshar** (an interpretation): The **secret** in question is not just the content of a dream, but also its **interpretation**, which Daniel is able to provide only after the **secret** is revealed to him [[Daniel 4:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7328}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of God's nature.
* **Divine Sovereignty over Knowledge:** The use of **secret** underscores that certain knowledge belongs to God alone and is beyond the reach of human intellect or divination [[Daniel 2:27]].
* **God as Revealer:** The primary theological point is that God is a "revealer of **secrets**" [[Daniel 2:47]]. He does not withhold knowledge arbitrarily but discloses it for His purposes, demonstrating His power and authority over all things, including the future [[Daniel 2:29]].
* **Revelation for a Purpose:** God's revelation of a **secret** is not a random act. In Daniel, it serves to save lives, make His name known to a pagan king, and provide the king with an understanding of "the thoughts of thy heart" ([[Daniel 2:18]], 2:30).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7328}}` is more than a simple word for a secret. It signifies a divine mystery that stands in stark contrast to the limits of human wisdom. Its use in the book of Daniel powerfully illustrates that understanding the hidden things of God is not a matter of human effort but a gift of divine revelation, underscoring God's omniscience and His role as the one who makes known what is to come.
TRV