בְּדַר

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Aramaic word bᵉdar, represented by H921, is defined as to scatter. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its meaning is straightforward, corresponding to the action of scattering or dispersing.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single biblical use of H921 is found in a command given in a vision. The command is to scatter the fruit of a great tree, which symbolizes a powerful king and his kingdom Daniel 4:14. This action is part of a series of destructive commands aimed at dismantling the tree, including hewing it down, cutting off its branches, and shaking off its leaves.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of H921 in Daniel 4:14 connects it to several other Aramaic words describing the dismantling of a great tree:

• H1414 gᵉdad (hew down): This is the primary command to fell the tree, setting the stage for the subsequent actions of destruction Daniel 4:14.
• H7113 qᵉtsats (cut off): Used to describe the severing of the tree's branches, another step in its complete takedown Daniel 4:14.
• H5426 nᵉthar (shake off): This action, applied to the tree's leaves, is a parallel command to scattering its fruit Daniel 4:14.
• H4 ʼêb (fruit): This is the object that is to be scattered, representing the produce or resources of the kingdom symbolized by the tree Daniel 4:14.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of H921 is entirely derived from its singular appearance in the context of divine judgment.

• An Act of Divine Judgment: The command to scatter the fruit is part of a decree from a heavenly watcher against Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom, symbolizing the dispersal of his power and wealth Daniel 4:14.
• Removal of Sustenance: The tree, with its abundant fruit, provided for all flesh Daniel 4:12. Scattering the fruit is an act that removes this provision, demonstrating how judgment can lead to the loss of a kingdom's resources and its ability to support others.
• Part of a Complete Dismantling: The action of scattering is listed alongside other commands like "hew down" H1414, "cut off" H7113, and "shake off" H5426, illustrating the comprehensive nature of the decreed judgment Daniel 4:14.

Summary

In summary, H921 bᵉdar is a specific Aramaic verb for the action to scatter. While appearing only once, its context within Nebuchadnezzar's vision gives it a clear purpose. It serves as a key component in a prophecy of divine judgment, representing the dispersal of a kingdom's resources and the dismantling of its power. The word illustrates how a single action can be part of a comprehensive and symbolic divine decree Daniel 4:14.