(Aramaic) corresponding to רָחוֹק; {remote, literally or figuratively, of place or time; specifically, precious; often used adverbially (with preposition)}; far.
Transliteration:rachîyq
Pronunciation:rakh-eek'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H7352}}` (rachîyq) fundamentally conveys the concept of distance or remoteness. Its primary semantic range encompasses both literal and figurative applications. Literally, it denotes being "far" or "distant" in terms of physical space. Figuratively, it can refer to remoteness in time, indicating something that is "far off" in the past or future, or abstract separation. A notable and distinct nuance within its semantic range is "precious" or "highly valued." This particular meaning, though seemingly divergent from "far," can be understood in contexts where something rare, difficult to obtain because of its distance, or exceptionally significant is deemed valuable. It is directly correlated with the Hebrew `{{H7350}}` (rachôq), sharing a common linguistic root and core meaning of separation or distance. The word is also frequently employed adverbially, often in conjunction with prepositions to emphasize the degree or direction of remoteness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, `{{H7352}}` primarily appears in the Aramaic sections of the biblical books of Daniel and Ezra. Its usage illuminates its various shades of meaning:
* **Distance in Space/Separation:** In [[Daniel 2:31]], Nebuchadnezzar's dream depicts a statue, and the word describes the "far off" or distant perspective from which the king observed it. Similarly, in [[Daniel 2:43]], it is used to illustrate the inability of the iron and clay in the feet of the statue to "mix" or "hold together," signifying a fundamental separation or being "far apart" in nature. This sense of distinctness or non-cohesion is crucial for understanding the prophetic imagery. In [[Ezra 6:6]], the term is used in the decree of Darius, instructing officials to "keep far away" from the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, emphasizing a command for non-interference and distance.
* **Preciousness/Great Favor:** The most distinct and theologically significant usage appears in [[Ezra 7:6]]. Here, Ezra is described as "a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses which the Lord God of Israel had given; and the king granted him all he requested, because the hand of the Lord his God was upon him." The word `{{H7352}}` in this context is often translated as "precious" or "great" favor. This meaning arises from the idea of something being "far removed" from the ordinary, hence exceptional and highly valued. It underscores the extraordinary favor granted to Ezra, not merely by human decree, but as a direct result of divine providence. This usage highlights that what is distant or rare can also be exceedingly valuable.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic counterpart to `{{H7352}}` is the Hebrew `{{H7350}}` (rachôq), which carries the identical core meaning of "far" or "distant." Both terms derive from the same Semitic root, signifying separation. Concepts related to `{{H7352}}` therefore include:
* **Distance and Proximity:** The semantic antithesis of `{{H7352}}` would be words denoting nearness or closeness, such as Hebrew `{{H7138}}` (qârôb). The interplay between "far" and "near" is a significant biblical theme, often applied to God's transcendence and immanence.
* **Separation and Distinction:** As seen in Daniel 2:43, `{{H7352}}` conveys the idea of distinctness or an inability to coalesce, which relates to concepts of purity, unadulterated nature, or fundamental differences.
* **Value and Rarity:** The "precious" meaning connects `{{H7352}}` to concepts of worth, favor, and that which is unique or exceptional. This can be linked to words denoting wealth, honor, or divine blessing.
* **Time and Eternity:** The figurative sense of "far" in time relates to concepts of prophecy, the distant past, or the unfolding of God's eternal plan.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H7352}}` is primarily a descriptive adjective, its specific applications carry profound theological weight:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Providence:** The usage in [[Ezra 7:6]] is particularly rich. The "precious" or "great" favor granted to Ezra is explicitly attributed to "the hand of the Lord his God." This demonstrates God's active involvement in human affairs, orchestrating events and granting extraordinary favor to achieve His purposes. The "far-reaching" nature of this favor underscores the comprehensive and powerful scope of divine providence.
* **God's Transcendence:** The general meaning of "far" can implicitly point to God's transcendence—His being "far above" human comprehension, earthly limitations, and sin. Though God is distant in His holiness and majesty, He is simultaneously immanent and active in the world.
* **Prophetic Unveiling of Distant Futures:** In the book of Daniel, the concept of "far" (as in [[Daniel 2:31]]) is crucial for understanding the prophetic revelation of future kingdoms and events. God, who is outside of time, reveals what is "far off" in human history, demonstrating His omniscience and control over time.
* **Spiritual Separation:** The idea of keeping "far away" (as in [[Ezra 6:6]]) or being fundamentally distinct (as in [[Daniel 2:43]]) can be a metaphor for the spiritual principle of separation from ungodliness, idolatry, or practices contrary to God's will. Believers are called to be distinct from the world, not mixing with its corrupting influences.
### Summary
The Aramaic word `{{H7352}}` (rachîyq) primarily signifies "far" or "remote," encompassing literal distance in space and figurative distance in time or abstract separation. Its usage in Daniel highlights physical and conceptual remoteness, as well as the distinctness of disparate elements. Critically, in Ezra, `{{H7352}}` uniquely conveys the meaning of "precious" or "great," particularly in reference to the extraordinary divine favor bestowed upon Ezra. This semantic range underscores not only the physical and temporal aspects of distance but also the profound value attributed to that which is rare or divinely appointed. Theologically, `{{H7352}}` speaks to God's sovereign hand in granting favor, His revelation of distant future events, and the call for spiritual distinctness, thereby enriching our understanding of divine providence and purpose within the biblical narrative.
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