The Aramaic word tᵉqan, represented by H8627, means to straighten up, confirm, or establish. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its meaning centers on the concept of being confirmed or re-established in a position of authority and stability, particularly after a period of disruption.
The sole use of H8627 occurs in the testimony of King Nebuchadnezzar after his sanity is restored. Following a period of madness, his reason and royal splendor return. He states, "and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me" Daniel 4:36. In this context, the word signifies a complete and divinely-ordained restoration to his throne, affirmed by the fact that his counsellors and lords once again sought him out.
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning of being established:
- H4437 malkûw (dominion... kingdom, kingly, realm, reign): This is the object of the establishment. Nebuchadnezzar was re-established in his kingdom, signifying the return of his royal authority Daniel 4:36.
- H7238 rᵉbûw (increase (of dignity); greatness, majesty): This describes the result of being established. Not only was Nebuchadnezzar's rule restored, but majesty was added to him, indicating an enhanced status Daniel 4:36.
- H3493 yattîyr (preeminent; as an adverb, very; exceeding(-ly), excellent): This modifier emphasizes the quality of the restored majesty, which was excellent Daniel 4:36.
- H8421 tûwb (to come back... answer, restore, return): This word is used for the return of Nebuchadnezzar's reason, honour, and brightness, setting the stage for his kingdom to be established Daniel 4:36.
The theological weight of H8627 is demonstrated in its single appearance:
- Divine Restoration: The word is used in the context of God restoring Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom. It highlights that ultimate authority to establish or re-establish a ruler belongs to God, occurring only after the king acknowledged heaven's sovereignty Daniel 4:34.
- Confirmation of Authority: To be "established" means more than just retaking power; it implies the position is made firm and secure. This is validated when Nebuchadnezzar's counsellors H1907 and lords H7261 sought him, confirming his legitimacy Daniel 4:36.
- Augmented Glory: The restoration was not merely a return to a previous state. The statement that "excellent majesty was added" H3255 suggests that a humbling followed by a divine establishment can result in even greater honor and dignity Daniel 4:36.
In summary, H8627 provides a concise and powerful picture of divinely-approved restoration. Though appearing only once, its use in Daniel's narrative is pivotal, marking the moment a humbled king is not only returned to power but is established with even greater majesty. It underscores the theme that true and lasting authority is confirmed and secured by God alone.
TRV