### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic lemma H8353, transliterated as *shêth* or *shith*, functions as a cardinal numeral meaning "six" or an ordinal meaning "sixth." It is the direct Aramaic equivalent to the Hebrew word `{{H8337}}` (*shēsh*), which also denotes the number "six." As a numerical term, its semantic range is straightforward, primarily indicating quantity or position within a sequence. In the Aramaic portions of the biblical text, it operates similarly to its Hebrew counterpart, providing specific numerical data, often related to measurements or counts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Aramaic term H8353 appears in only one significant biblical context:
* [[Daniel 3:1]]: "King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold, whose height was sixty cubits and its breadth six cubits. He set it up on the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon."
In this sole occurrence, H8353 specifically describes the breadth of the golden image constructed by King Nebuchadnezzar. The verse states the image's dimensions as sixty cubits in height (represented by the Aramaic *shittin*, related to "six") and six cubits in breadth. This precise measurement is crucial for understanding the symbolic weight of the idol. The repeated use of "six" (in sixty and six) in the idol's dimensions is notable and sets the stage for the dramatic confrontation between human idolatry and divine sovereignty that follows in the chapter. The numerical specificity adds a tangible element to the description of the object of false worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the Hebrew `{{H8337}}` (*shēsh*), which carries the identical meaning of "six." The numerical systems in both Hebrew and Aramaic are closely aligned, reflecting their common Semitic linguistic roots. Other Aramaic numerical terms, such as *shittin* (sixty), are also related, demonstrating the consistent pattern of number formation. Beyond the direct numerical equivalences, H8353 connects to the broader biblical concept of numbers and their symbolic significance. While simply a numeral, its context in [[Daniel 3:1]] places it within the realm of human constructs and systems, in contrast to divine order.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H8353 is not inherent in the number "six" itself but is profoundly derived from its singular, prominent occurrence in [[Daniel 3:1]]. Here, the dimensions of Nebuchadnezzar's golden idol are given as sixty cubits high and six cubits wide. The number six, often associated with human effort, imperfection, and the created order (e.g., the six days of creation before the Sabbath rest), takes on a particular symbolic weight in this context.
The idol, a product of human hands and human pride, is built entirely upon the number six. This stands in stark contrast to the divine number seven, which typically symbolizes completion, perfection, and divine fullness. The idol's dimensions (60x6) may subtly underscore its human origin, its incompleteness, and its ultimate inability to truly represent or compete with the divine. It represents a human attempt to establish an alternate center of worship and authority, falling short of God's perfect standard. The narrative of Daniel 3 subsequently demonstrates the futility and destructive nature of such idolatry when confronted by the living God, whose power transcends all human constructs and demands.
### Summary
H8353 is an Aramaic numeral meaning "six" or "sixth," directly corresponding to the Hebrew `{{H8337}}`. Its sole significant biblical occurrence is in [[Daniel 3:1]], where it specifies the "six cubits" breadth of Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. While a simple numerical term, its context imbues it with theological weight, as the repeated use of "six" in the idol's dimensions underscores its human origin, imperfection, and the inherent futility of idolatry when contrasted with the divine perfection.
TRV