The Aramaic word ʼâth, represented by H852, means a portent or sign. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The word is used to describe divine, observable acts that demonstrate God's power and authority.
In the biblical narrative, H852 is used exclusively in the book of Daniel to refer to the mighty acts of God. It is presented as a public declaration of divine power, with King Nebuchadnezzar proclaiming, "How great are his signs!" Daniel 4:3. These acts serve as evidence of God's intervention in human affairs, prompting Nebuchadnezzar to "shew the signs and wonders that the high God hath wrought toward me" Daniel 4:2. The term is also linked to God's acts of salvation, as He "worketh signs and wonders" to rescue His followers, such as delivering Daniel from the lions Daniel 6:27.
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the meaning of ʼâth:
- H8540 tᵉmahh (a miracle; wonder): This word is paired with ʼâth in all of its occurrences, creating the recurring phrase "signs and wonders" to emphasize the miraculous nature of God's works (Daniel 4:2, Daniel 4:3, Daniel 6:27).
- H7260 rabrab (huge (in size); domineering (in character); (very) great (things)): This adjective is used to describe the immense scale of God's signs, highlighting their undeniable impact Daniel 4:3.
- H5648 ʻăbad (to do, make, prepare, keep, etc.): This verb describes the action of God performing the signs. It is stated that God "hath wrought" these signs Daniel 4:2 and that He "worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth" Daniel 6:27.
- H7804 shᵉzab (to leave, i.e. (causatively) free; deliver): The purpose of God's signs is often deliverance. The power to work signs is directly connected to His ability to deliver His servants from harm Daniel 6:27.
The theological significance of H852 is centered on God's sovereignty and His relationship with humanity.
- Divine Attestation: The signs function as undeniable proof of God's power, performed by the "high God" Daniel 4:2. They are public displays that testify to His might.
- Evidence of God's Kingdom: These powerful acts are explicitly linked to the nature of God's rule. The exclamation "How great are his signs!" is immediately followed by the declaration that "his kingdom is an everlasting kingdom" Daniel 4:3.
- Instrument of Salvation: God's power is not abstract; it is active and protective. He works signs and wonders as the means by which He "delivereth and rescueth" His faithful people Daniel 6:27.
In summary, H852 is a specific term used in the Aramaic sections of Daniel to denote a sign or portent from God. It is never used lightly, but always in connection with "wonders" to describe magnificent displays of divine power. These signs serve to authenticate God's supreme authority, affirm His eternal kingdom, and demonstrate His power to deliver those who trust in Him.
TRV