### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **taqqîyph**, represented by `{{H8624}}`, is a term meaning **mighty** or **strong**. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. This word is used to describe both the immense power of God and the formidable strength of earthly kingdoms and rulers, often in a prophetic context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H8624}}` is used to express different forms of power. It is used to praise God, as in the declaration, "how **mighty** are his wonders!" [[Daniel 4:3]]. The word also describes the might of human rulers, such as the "**mighty** kings" who once ruled over Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:20]]. In the prophetic visions of Daniel, it characterizes the immense and terrifying power of empires. The fourth kingdom is described as being "**strong** as iron" [[Daniel 2:40]], and the fourth beast is portrayed as "dreadful and terrible, and **strong** exceedingly" [[Daniel 7:7]]. A later vision shows a kingdom that is only "partly **strong**" [[Daniel 2:42]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the context of what it means to be `{{H8624}}` **mighty** or **strong**:
* `{{H6523}}` **parzel** (iron): This word for **iron** is directly used to symbolize strength. The fourth kingdom's power is explicitly compared to this material, as it "shall be **strong** as **iron**" [[Daniel 2:40]].
* `{{H1855}}` **dᵉqaq** (break to pieces): This term describes the destructive action of a strong power. The fourth kingdom, which is strong as iron, "breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things" [[Daniel 2:40]], and the strong beast in Daniel's vision also "devoured and **brake in pieces**" [[Daniel 7:7]].
* `{{H1763}}` **dᵉchal** (dreadful): This word, meaning to be formidable or **dreadful**, is used alongside `{{H8624}}` to characterize the fear-inducing nature of the fourth beast [[Daniel 7:7]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (king): This word for **king** is used to identify the figures who wield power, such as the "**mighty** kings" over Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:20]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H8624}}` carries significant weight, particularly within the prophecies of Daniel.
* **Divine vs. Earthly Might:** The term is applied to God's "wonders" [[Daniel 4:3]] and also to earthly "kings" [[Ezra 4:20]] and kingdoms [[Daniel 2:40]], creating a contrast between the enduring power of God and the temporal power of humanity.
* **The Destructive Nature of Power:** Earthly kingdoms described as **strong** are often depicted as instruments of destruction. The fourth kingdom is "strong as iron" precisely because iron "breaketh in pieces and subdueth all things" [[Daniel 2:40]].
* **The Fragility of Strength:** The image of the toes in Daniel's vision reveals that earthly strength can be compromised. The kingdom they represent is "partly **strong**, and partly broken" `{{H8406}}`, illustrating that human power is not absolute [[Daniel 2:42]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8624}}` is a focused Aramaic term for might and strength. While it can describe the awesome power of God's works, its primary use in scripture is to characterize the formidable and often destructive power of earthly empires as seen in the prophetic visions of Daniel and the historical records of Ezra. It highlights a recurring theme: the great strength of human kingdoms, which is ultimately shown to be flawed when compared to the everlasting dominion of God.
TRV