### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shallîyṭ**, represented by `{{H7990}}`, defines concepts of being **mighty**, having permission, or holding the position of a **ruler** or **captain**. It appears 10 times across 10 unique verses, primarily in the books of Daniel and Ezra. The word conveys a strong sense of authority, encompassing both the power to govern and the legal right to do so.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7990}}` is applied to both divine and human authority. Its most prominent use is to declare God's ultimate sovereignty, as seen in the repeated declaration that "the most High **ruleth** in the kingdom of men" ([[Daniel 4:17]], 4:25, 4:32). This theme is reinforced when Nebuchadnezzar learns that "the heavens do **rule**" [[Daniel 4:26]]. The word also designates human positions of power, such as when Arioch is identified as the king's **captain** [[Daniel 2:15]] or when Daniel is appointed as the third **ruler** in the kingdom [[Daniel 5:29]]. Furthermore, it carries a legal connotation, establishing what is permissible when a decree states it is not **lawful** to impose taxes on the ministers of God's house [[Ezra 7:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of authority and power associated with `{{H7990}}`:
* `{{H8624}}` **taqqîyph** (mighty): This term describes the strength required for governance. It is used to describe the **mighty** kings over Jerusalem who had **ruled** the surrounding region [[Ezra 4:20]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (king): As the title for a monarch, it is often used alongside `{{H7990}}` to describe a hierarchy of power. The Chaldeans noted that no **king**, lord, nor **ruler** had ever made such a difficult request [[Daniel 2:10]].
* `{{H6966}}` **qûwm** (appoint, establish): This verb highlights that authority is granted from a higher source. God not only **ruleth** but also **setteth up** over the kingdom whomever He wills [[Daniel 4:17]].
* `{{H5943}}` **ʻillay** (most high): This title for God is consistently identified as the one who ultimately **ruleth**, establishing the foundation of all divine authority over human affairs [[Daniel 5:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7990}}` is significant, particularly in the book of Daniel.
* **Absolute Divine Sovereignty:** The word is central to the theme that God's authority is supreme. The lesson for Nebuchadnezzar is that the "most High **ruleth**" and **giveth** `{{H5415}}` the kingdom to anyone He chooses, demonstrating that earthly power is temporary and derived [[Daniel 4:25]].
* **Delegated Human Authority:** While God is the ultimate ruler, `{{H7990}}` is also used for human leaders like a **captain** [[Daniel 2:15]] or a premier **ruler** [[Daniel 5:29]]. This illustrates a biblical model of delegated authority, where human governance exists under divine sovereignty.
* **Rule by Divine Decree:** The exercise of authority is linked to declared will. The fact that the most High **ruleth** is announced as a **decree** `{{H1510}}` from the **watchers** `{{H5894}}`, tying God's power to His spoken word and judgment [[Daniel 4:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7990}}` is a crucial Aramaic term that defines the structure of power, from a human **captain** to the "most High" God who **ruleth** over all. It bridges the concepts of might, legal right, and divine appointment. The word illustrates that while humans may hold positions as rulers, their authority is a temporary grant from the one true Sovereign who establishes and oversees all kingdoms.
TRV