(Aramaic) from an unused root probably meaning; to attenuate, i.e. (figuratively) hide; a mystery; secret.
Transliteration:râz
Pronunciation:rawz
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H7328}}` (*râz*) denotes a "mystery" or "secret." Derived from an unused root likely meaning "to attenuate" or "to hide," its core semantic range centers on that which is concealed, hidden, or not readily discernible through ordinary human means. It refers to knowledge or information that is obscured from common understanding, requiring a special act of revelation to be made known. Thus, `{{H7328}}` signifies a profound truth or event that lies beyond the grasp of human intellect or investigation, accessible only through divine disclosure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H7328}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Daniel, specifically within chapter 2. Its usage is consistently tied to King Nebuchadnezzar's forgotten dream and its interpretation.
* In [[Daniel 2:18]], Daniel and his companions pray for mercy concerning "this secret" (the dream), emphasizing its hidden nature.
* [[Daniel 2:19]] records the pivotal moment when the "secret" was revealed to Daniel in a night vision, underscoring divine intervention.
* Daniel repeatedly contrasts human inability with divine power regarding this "secret." He states in [[Daniel 2:27]] that no human wise man, enchanter, magician, or soothsayer can reveal the king's "secret."
* In profound theological statements, Daniel declares in [[Daniel 2:28]] and [[Daniel 2:29]] that "there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets." This attribute is further affirmed by Nebuchadnezzar himself in [[Daniel 2:47]], who acknowledges Daniel's God as "a revealer of secrets."
* [[Daniel 2:30]] highlights Daniel's humility, attributing the revelation of the "secret" not to his own wisdom, but to God's purpose in making known the dream's interpretation.
The consistent contextual usage of `{{H7328}}` in Daniel 2 firmly establishes it as a truth known only to God, requiring His direct intervention to be unveiled to humanity.
### Related Words & Concepts
While `{{H7328}}` is an Aramaic term, it shares conceptual kinship with several Hebrew and Greek words. In the Hebrew Bible, the concept of a "secret" or "confidential matter" is often conveyed by `{{H5640}}` (*sōd*), which can denote a counsel, secret assembly, or intimate confidence (e.g., [[Psalm 25:14]]). The verb "to hide" or "to conceal" is rendered by `{{H3588}}` (*kāḥad*).
Theologically, `{{H7328}}` serves as an Old Testament precursor to the New Testament Greek term `{{G3466}}` (*mystērion*), which likewise signifies a truth previously hidden but now revealed by God. While not a direct linguistic equivalent, the conceptual parallel is significant, as both terms refer to divine knowledge that transcends human discovery and is unveiled through God's sovereign will (e.g., the mystery of Christ in [[Ephesians 3:3-6]]). Concepts such as divine revelation, hidden wisdom, and prophetic insight are intimately related to `{{H7328}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7328}}` is profound. It primarily underscores God's unique and exclusive attribute as the "Revealer of Secrets." This title, directly applied to God in Daniel 2, contrasts His omniscient power with the inherent limitations of human wisdom, magic, and divination. The inability of Babylon's wisest men to reveal Nebuchadnezzar's dream highlights the futility of human efforts to grasp divine truths without divine aid.
Furthermore, `{{H7328}}` links to God's sovereign control over history and prophecy. The "secret" revealed in Daniel 2 was not merely a private matter but concerned the future course of world empires and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom. Thus, the concept of `{{H7328}}` connects directly to God's unfolding eschatological plan, demonstrating that even the distant future is perfectly known and orchestrated by Him. This divine revelation serves to authenticate God's supreme authority and the truthfulness of His prophetic word, providing comfort and assurance to His people amidst the uncertainties of human history.
### Summary
`{{H7328}}` (*râz*) is an Aramaic term meaning "mystery" or "secret," derived from a root indicating something hidden or concealed. Its occurrences are confined to Daniel 2, where it consistently refers to Nebuchadnezzar's forgotten dream and its divinely revealed interpretation. The word highlights God's exclusive role as the "Revealer of Secrets," contrasting His infinite knowledge with finite human understanding. Conceptually, it parallels the New Testament `{{G3466}}` (*mystērion*), both terms referring to truths previously hidden but unveiled by divine revelation. Theologically, `{{H7328}}` emphasizes God's sovereignty over knowledge, history, and prophecy, affirming His unique ability to disclose His plans and purposes to humanity.
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