### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shappîyr**, represented by `{{H8209}}`, means **beautiful** or **fair**. It is an intensive term, appearing only 2 times in 2 verses. Its usage is confined to the book of Daniel, where it describes the visual appeal of a mighty, symbolic tree.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H8209}}` is used to describe the leaves of the great tree in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. This description is part of a larger picture of a flourishing and prosperous kingdom that provides shelter and sustenance for all creatures. The leaves being **fair** [[Daniel 4:12]] signifies the health, vibrancy, and impressive appearance of the kingdom. This exact phrasing is repeated when the dream is interpreted, emphasizing the tree's magnificent state: "Whose leaves were **fair**, and the fruit thereof much" [[Daniel 4:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller picture of the tree's characteristics in the surrounding text:
* `{{H6074}}` **ʻŏphîy** (leaves): This is the direct object described as "fair." The word means "a twig, i.e. (collectively) foliage." In the dream, the order is given to "shake off his **leaves**" as part of the tree's judgment [[Daniel 4:14]].
* `{{H7690}}` **saggîyʼ** (much): This word, meaning "large (in size, quantity or number)," is used in parallel with `{{H8209}}` to describe the tree's abundance. The text states the fruit thereof was **much**, and in it was meat for all [[Daniel 4:12]].
* `{{H4203}}` **mâzôwn** (meat): This term for "food" reveals the purpose of the fair leaves and abundant fruit. The tree's beauty was not merely decorative; it provided **meat** for all [[Daniel 4:21]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H8209}}` is tied directly to the metaphor of the tree in Daniel 4.
* **Symbol of Kingdom Glory:** The "fair" leaves represent the outward glory, prosperity, and expansive reach of Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom, which appeared magnificent to the world.
* **Beauty and Provision:** The term connects the aesthetic quality of the kingdom (fair leaves) to its function as a provider (meat for all). The beauty of the tree is intrinsically linked to its ability to sustain life [[Daniel 4:12]].
* **Source of Shelter:** This visual splendor is part of a complete ecosystem where beasts of the field find **shadow** `{{H2927}}` and birds of the **heaven** `{{H8065}}` find habitation, underscoring the kingdom's role as a protector [[Daniel 4:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8209}}` **shappîyr** is a specific and potent descriptor used exclusively within Nebuchadnezzar's dream. While its definition is simple—**fair** or **beautiful**—its application is profound. It paints a picture of a kingdom at the peak of its glory, linking its visual magnificence directly to its function as a source of provision and shelter for all who dwelt under its influence.