The Aramaic word sᵉgâʼ, represented by H7680, means to increase, grow, or be multiplied. It is a rare term, appearing only 3 times in 3 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is straightforward, denoting a quantitative increase, but its application varies significantly based on the context, referring to both positive and negative growth.
In its biblical usage, H7680 appears exclusively in royal or official communications in the books of Daniel and Ezra. Two occurrences are found in the opening of letters from powerful gentile kings. Both King Nebuchadnezzar Daniel 4:1 and King Darius Daniel 6:25 use the identical phrase, "Peace be multiplied unto you," to extend a blessing of great peace to all peoples and nations in their realms. In contrast, the word is used in a cautionary sense in Ezra, where officials warn against allowing the rebuilding of Jerusalem, asking, "why should damage grow to the hurt of the kings?" Ezra 4:22.
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which H7680 is used:
- H8001 shᵉlâm (peace): This word for prosperity and peace is the subject that is being multiplied in the royal blessings issued by Nebuchadnezzar and Darius (Daniel 4:1, Daniel 6:25).
- H2257 chăbal (damage, hurt): In the warning found in Ezra, this is the negative concept that is threatening to grow if the rebuilding is not stopped Ezra 4:22.
- H4430 melek (king): All three instances of H7680 occur in matters concerning a king. The word is used by King Nebuchadnezzar and King Darius, and the warning in Ezra is about preventing damage to the kings Ezra 4:22.
The significance of H7680 lies in its illustration of growth as a neutral principle.
- Authoritative Blessing: Used by Nebuchadnezzar and Darius, the term functions as a formal, royal pronouncement. It shows gentile kings using a Hebraic-style blessing to wish abundant peace upon their subjects Daniel 6:25.
- Escalating Harm: The word also serves as a warning of escalating consequences. In Ezra, it highlights the fear that allowing a small project to proceed will lead to damage that will grow into a significant problem for the monarchy Ezra 4:22.
- Dual Nature of Increase: The contrasting uses demonstrate that multiplication itself is not inherently good or bad. Peace can be multiplied for a blessing, but damage can also grow, leading to hurt. The value of the increase depends entirely on what is being increased.
In summary, H7680 is a concise Aramaic term for increase. Though used infrequently, its appearances in Daniel and Ezra are significant. It operates in the sphere of kings and kingdoms, employed both as a powerful blessing for the multiplication of peace and as a stark warning about the growth of damage. The word effectively captures the dual potential of any situation to either increase in blessing or escalate into harm.
TRV