אַנְתּוּן

ye

Definition

The Aramaic word אַנְתּוּן is the plural form of the second-person pronoun, meaning 'you' (plural) or 'ye.' It directly addresses a group of people, functioning identically to the Hebrew אַתֶּם. This word appears only in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Daniel. In its single occurrence in Daniel 2:8, King Nebuchadnezzar uses it to accuse his wise men collectively of trying to stall for time, emphasizing a direct, formal address to a subordinate group.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in Biblical Aramaic, not in Hebrew sections of the Old Testament. Its sole usage is in Daniel 2:8, within the narrative of Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Here, it is employed in royal, accusatory speech, highlighting a direct address from a king to his court officials. The context is one of confrontation and suspicion, setting the stage for Daniel's intervention.

Etymology

אַנְתּוּן is the plural form of the Aramaic singular pronoun אַנְתָּה (H607), meaning 'you' (singular). It is the direct Aramaic cognate of the Hebrew plural pronoun אַתֶּם (H859). The word is a standard personal pronoun in Aramaic, showing the typical Aramaic plural ending -וּן added to the base form.

Semantic Range

In the Aramaic court setting of Daniel, this pronoun reflects formal address from a superior (the king) to a group of subordinates (the wise men). Its use underscores the social hierarchy and the gravity of the royal accusation. The singular occurrence highlights the specific, high-stakes moment of divine revelation being withheld from the Babylonian sages.

אַתֶּם (ʼattem, H859) — The direct Hebrew equivalent, meaning 'you' (plural, masculine).

Word Details

Scripture References