### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **tᵉqêph**, represented by `{{H8631}}`, is used to convey concepts of strength, firmness, and obstinacy. Its base definition is to become mighty, make firm, harden, or be strong. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel, where it illustrates the nature of both physical power and internal stubbornness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H8631}}` describes different forms of strength. It is used twice to depict the immense size and might of the symbolic tree in Nebuchadnezzar's dream, which "grew, and **was strong**" ([[Daniel 4:11]], [[Daniel 4:20]]). This is later applied directly to the king himself, who has "grown and **become strong**" [[Daniel 4:22]]. The word also signifies legal or declarative power, as when the officials of Darius conspire to "**make a firm** decree" that cannot be changed [[Daniel 6:7]]. In a contrasting, negative sense, it describes a mind that has **hardened** in pride, leading to a ruler's downfall [[Daniel 5:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H8631}}`:
* `{{H7236}}` **rᵉbâh** (to increase; grow): This word is paired with `{{H8631}}` to show a process of development. Both the symbolic tree and King Nebuchadnezzar first **grew** `{{H7236}}` and then became strong `{{H8631}}` [[Daniel 4:22]].
* `{{H6966}}` **qûwm** (to rise; establish, set up): This term appears in the context of creating law. Officials sought to **establish** `{{H6966}}` a statute and make a **firm** `{{H8631}}` decree, linking the act of setting something up with making it unshakeable [[Daniel 6:7]].
* `{{H2103}}` **zûwd** (to be proud; in pride): This word provides the crucial motivation behind the negative use of `{{H8631}}`. A king's mind **hardened** `{{H8631}}` specifically in **pride** `{{H2103}}`, which resulted in his deposition [[Daniel 5:20]].
* `{{H7308}}` **rûwach** (mind, spirit, wind): This term identifies what becomes hardened. It is the king's **mind** `{{H7308}}` that hardened, showing that the obstinacy described by `{{H8631}}` is an internal, spiritual state [[Daniel 5:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8631}}` is concentrated in its usage within Daniel, highlighting key themes of power and pride.
* **The Nature of Earthly Power:** The word is used to define the peak of human sovereignty, describing a king whose strength and dominion are vast [[Daniel 4:22]]. This strength is represented by a great tree reaching to heaven, visible to all the earth [[Daniel 4:11]].
* **The Danger of a Hardened Mind:** `{{H8631}}` serves as a potent warning. When a heart is lifted up, the mind can **harden** in pride, creating a state of obstinacy that directly opposes God's authority and leads to judgment and removal from power [[Daniel 5:20]].
* **The Inflexibility of Human Law:** The application of `{{H8631}}` to a **firm** decree demonstrates the binding and absolute nature of man-made law. This sets the stage for a conflict between the unchangeable decrees of a king and allegiance to God [[Daniel 6:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8631}}` encapsulates a duality central to the narratives in Daniel. On one hand, it represents might and establishment, describing the formidable strength of a king's dominion and the firmness of his laws. On the other, it signifies a perilous internal state, where that same sense of power leads to a mind that has **hardened** in pride. Through its few appearances, **tᵉqêph** provides a concise yet powerful commentary on the rise of human power and the spiritual corruption that can cause its fall.
TRV