(Aramaic) corresponding to תַּחַת; {the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc.}; under.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **tachath**, represented by `{{H8479}}`, is an adverbial term for **under** or below. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its meaning corresponds to its Hebrew counterpart and is used to denote the bottom or the area underneath something, signifying a position of being covered or sheltered.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{H8479}}` is found in the book of Daniel, within the description of King Nebuchadnezzar's prophetic dream. A divine decree is issued to cut down a great, sheltering tree, which represents the king and his dominion. The command is given for the beasts to "get away from **under it**" [[Daniel 4:14]]. In this context, the word precisely marks the location of the creatures who had found shelter and sustenance from the tree, highlighting the removal of that protection.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage clarify the context of `{{H8479}}`:
* `{{H363}}` **'îylân** (a tree): This is the central object of the vision, the great **tree** that is to be hewn down. The space **under** it is the location described by `{{H8479}}` [[Daniel 4:14]].
* `{{H2423}}` **chêyvâʼ** (an animal; beast): These are the creatures that dwell **under** the tree's protection. The command to scatter targets the **beasts** that had benefited from the tree's dominion [[Daniel 4:14]].
* `{{H5111}}` **nûwd** (to flee; get away): This word describes the commanded action. The beasts are not merely to move, but to **get away** from their place of shelter **under** the tree as it faces judgment [[Daniel 4:14]].
* `{{H6853}}` **tsᵉphar** (a bird): Mentioned in parallel to the beasts, the **fowls** are commanded to flee from the branches, illustrating the total dismantling of the tree's function as a haven [[Daniel 4:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8479}}` is tied directly to its role in this vision of divine judgment.
* **Removal of Shelter:** The command for the beasts to leave from **under** the tree symbolizes the stripping away of earthly security and provision. The shelter that the king's power provided is shown to be temporary and subject to God's authority [[Daniel 4:14]].
* **Consequence of Pride:** The word's use is part of a direct consequence of pride. The judgment is to "Hew down the tree," and the immediate result is the scattering of all who depended on it, starting with those directly **under** it [[Daniel 4:14]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The imagery emphasizes God's absolute power over earthly kingdoms. He can command the dismantling of a great power, causing even the creatures that dwelt **under** its influence to be dispersed.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H8479}}` is a rare word with a simple definition of **under**, its sole use in scripture is powerful. Within Nebuchadnezzar's dream, it marks the physical and symbolic space of dependence upon a prideful kingdom. The command to flee from **under** the tree serves as a potent illustration of how divine judgment results in the complete removal of worldly protection and security.
TRV