The Aramaic word sholṭân, represented by H7985, is a term for dominion, used both for an empire and for the authority to rule. It appears 14 times across 9 unique verses, exclusively within the book of Daniel. The word's usage consistently explores the theme of power, contrasting the temporary authority of earthly kingdoms with the supreme and eternal sovereignty of God.
In the biblical narrative, H7985 is applied to both divine and human rule. Earthly power, like that of King Nebuchadnezzar, is described as a dominion that reaches "to the end of the earth" Daniel 4:22. Similarly, the prophetic beasts in Daniel's vision are granted temporary dominion Daniel 7:6. However, this authority is finite and is ultimately "taken away" (Daniel 7:12, Daniel 7:26). In stark contrast, God's dominion is described as "an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away" Daniel 7:14 and extends "from generation to generation" Daniel 4:3.
Several related Aramaic words clarify the nature and scope of dominion:
- H4437 malkûw (dominion...; kingdom, kingly, realm, reign): This word for "kingdom" is frequently paired with H7985 to describe the full extent of a sovereign's rule, such as the "kingdom and dominion" that will be given to the people of the saints of the most High Daniel 7:27.
- H3052 yᵉhab (to give...; deliver, give, lay...): This verb highlights that dominion is not inherently possessed but is granted by a higher authority. Authority is "given" to the beast Daniel 7:6, and an everlasting dominion is "given" to the Son of Man Daniel 7:14.
- H5957 ʻâlam (remote time... forever; for (n-)ever (lasting), old): This term for "everlasting" is a key descriptor that distinguishes God's dominion from all others. His rule is repeatedly defined as an "everlasting dominion" Daniel 4:34.
The theological significance of H7985 is centered on the sovereignty of God over all earthly power.
- Sovereign Bestowal of Authority: The concept of dominion is consistently shown as something God bestows. He gives dominion to earthly empires Daniel 7:6 and ultimately gives an everlasting dominion to a figure like a Son of Man Daniel 7:14.
- The Transience of Earthly Power: The word is used to show that human and political dominion is finite. The visions in Daniel show great beasts whose dominion is taken away and will be consumed and destroyed (Daniel 7:12, Daniel 7:26).
- The Eternality of Divine Rule: In direct contrast to temporary earthly power, God's dominion is explicitly defined as "everlasting" and eternal. It is a rule that will not pass away Daniel 7:14, culminating in a final, indestructible kingdom where all other dominions will serve and obey Him Daniel 7:27.
In summary, H7985 is far more than a simple term for political control. It is a cornerstone concept in the book of Daniel, establishing the fundamental distinction between the fleeting authority of men and empires and the absolute, enduring sovereignty of God. The word illustrates how all dominion is ultimately granted and governed by God, whose own dominion alone is everlasting and will stand forever.
TRV