### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **raʻănan**, represented by `{{H7487}}`, means to be **green**, and is used figuratively to mean **prosperous** or **flourishing**. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. Its rarity makes its single usage particularly noteworthy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7487}}` is in the personal testimony of King Nebuchadnezzar `{{H5020}}`. He declares, "I Nebuchadnezzar was at rest in mine house, and **flourishing** in my palace" [[Daniel 4:4]]. The word is used to describe a state of peak royal power, security, and prosperity. It is paired with the term for being "at rest" `{{H7954}}`, establishing a scene of complete human confidence and comfort just before God reveals a humbling vision to the king.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its immediate context help to define the state of being prosperous:
* `{{H7954}}` **shᵉlâh** (to be secure; at rest): This word is used in parallel with **raʻănan** to paint a picture of total peace and prosperity from Nebuchadnezzar's perspective [[Daniel 4:4]].
* `{{H1005}}` **bayith** (a house): The location where the king was "at rest." In the context of Nebuchadnezzar's boast, it represents the "house of the kingdom" he believed he had built [[Daniel 4:30]].
* `{{H1965}}` **hêykal** (palace, temple): The specific setting for the king's "flourishing" state, emphasizing the grandeur of his position [[Daniel 4:4]].
* `{{H576}}` **ʼănâʼ** (I): The use of the first-person pronoun by Nebuchadnezzar underscores that this sense of being prosperous is rooted in his own self-perception and accomplishment [[Daniel 4:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7487}}` is derived entirely from its narrative placement in the book of Daniel.
* **The Illusion of Human Security:** The word captures a moment of supreme human achievement and perceived safety. Nebuchadnezzar feels he is **flourishing** due to his own power, but the subsequent events of Daniel 4 reveal this to be a temporary state dependent entirely on God's authority.
* **A Marker of Pride:** This declaration of being "flourishing" is a prelude to the king's prideful boast about building Babylon for his own honor [[Daniel 4:30]]. The word thus functions as a symbol of the pride that precedes divine judgment.
* **Prosperity and Divine Sovereignty:** By describing himself as **flourishing**, Nebuchadnezzar unknowingly connects his reign to an image of natural vitality. The story powerfully demonstrates that God alone is the source of such life and can remove it at will, proving that He is the King of heaven who can abase those who walk in pride [[Daniel 4:37]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7487}}` **raʻănan** is a rare but powerful word. Its single occurrence provides a crucial snapshot of King Nebuchadnezzar's mindset at the peak of his power. It defines a state of being prosperous and flourishing that is rooted in human achievement and pride. Theologically, it serves as a stark reminder that all earthly power and security are ultimately subject to the sovereignty of God.
TRV