### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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