### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **bîynâh**, represented by `{{H999}}`, means **understanding** or knowledge. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, indicating a very specific application of the term. Its sole use highlights understanding as a divinely imparted gift.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H999}}` is in Daniel's praise to God, where he declares that God "giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know **understanding**" [[Daniel 2:21]]. This places the concept of understanding directly within the context of God's sovereignty, as the same verse affirms that God changes times and seasons and controls the rise and fall of kings. Understanding here is presented not as a human achievement, but as a capacity that makes one receptive to divine knowledge.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context clarify the meaning of `{{H999}}`:
* `{{H2452}}` **chokmâh** (wisdom): Defined as **wisdom**, this word is used in parallel with `{{H999}}`. God gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those with understanding, linking these concepts as divine gifts [[Daniel 2:21]].
* `{{H4486}}` **mandaʻ** (knowledge): Meaning **wisdom or intelligence**, this is the specific gift given to those who already "know understanding." It suggests that understanding is the foundation upon which divine knowledge is built [[Daniel 2:21]].
* `{{H3046}}` **yᵉdaʻ** (to know): This verb, meaning **to know**, describes the state of the person who receives knowledge. The text says God gives knowledge "to them that know understanding," emphasizing that possessing understanding is a key attribute for receiving further divine insight [[Daniel 2:21]].
* `{{H3052}}` **yᵉhab** (to give): This word, meaning **to give**, establishes the source of wisdom and knowledge. It is God who gives these things to humanity, positioning understanding as a divine endowment [[Daniel 2:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H999}}` is concentrated in its single appearance:
* **Divine Origin:** The primary theological point is that understanding is a faculty that enables one to receive knowledge which originates from God. God is the ultimate giver of this insight [[Daniel 2:21]].
* **Sovereign Gifting:** The act of bestowing knowledge upon those with understanding is framed alongside God's absolute power over human affairs, such as removing `{{H5709}}` and setting up `{{H6966}}` kings `{{H4430}}`. This connects spiritual insight directly to God's sovereign control over the world.
* **Receptive Faculty:** The phrasing in [[Daniel 2:21]] implies that **bîynâh** is a state or capacity. It is something one can "know" or possess, which then qualifies them to receive further gifts of knowledge and wisdom from God.
### Summary
In summary, **bîynâh** `{{H999}}` provides a specific Aramaic term for **understanding**. Though it appears only once, its context in [[Daniel 2:21]] is profound. It is not merely human intellect but a capacity that positions a person to receive divine gifts of wisdom and knowledge. Its use firmly establishes God as the sovereign source of all true insight, linking the ability to understand with His power to govern all creation.
TRV