עִקַּר
a stock
Definition
The Hebrew noun עִקַּר (ʻiqqar) primarily refers to the 'stock' or 'stump' of a tree, specifically the part left in the ground after the tree has been cut down. In its three biblical occurrences, all in the Aramaic portions of Daniel, it describes the remnant of a great tree in King Nebuchadnezzar's dream. This stump, though the tree is felled, is bound with a band of iron and bronze, indicating it is preserved and protected (Daniel 4:15, 23, 26). The word thus carries the dual sense of something that has been humbled or cut down, yet retains a vital, living connection to its roots with the potential for future restoration.
Biblical Usage
This word is used exclusively in the Book of Daniel, specifically in the interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar's dream of a great tree. In all three instances (Daniel 4:15, 23, 26), it refers to the 'stump' of the felled tree, which is bound with metal to preserve it. The context is prophetic and symbolic, where the stump represents the humbled king who, though his dominion is removed, will have his life and kingdom preserved and eventually restored.
Etymology
The word עִקַּר (ʻiqqar) is an Aramaic noun borrowed into the Hebrew text of Daniel. It is derived from the root עֲקַר (ʻăqar, H6132), which means 'to pluck up' or 'to root out.' Thus, the noun essentially means 'that which is rooted' or 'the root-stock,' fitting its meaning as the foundational, remaining part of a tree after the trunk and branches have been removed.
Semantic Range
Theologically, עִקַּר is significant as a powerful symbol of God's judgment and mercy. In Daniel 4, the stump represents King Nebuchadnezzar after God's judgment humbles him. Crucially, the preserved stump signifies that God's discipline is not ultimate destruction but a purposeful act intended to lead to restoration and the acknowledgment of divine sovereignty (Daniel 4:26). It illustrates the biblical theme that God can preserve a remnant through judgment, a concept central to Israel's prophetic hope.
In an ancient Near Eastern context, a great tree was a common symbol for a mighty king or empire (see Ezekiel 31:3-18). The image of cutting down a tree but leaving a bound stump would have been understood as a depiction of a king being deposed from power and glory, yet having his life and core identity protected. The binding with metal (iron and bronze) signified preservation and restraint, preventing the stump from decaying or being removed, ensuring its survival for a future purpose.
גֶּזַע (gezaʻ, H1503) — A more common Hebrew word for 'stem' or 'stock,' used for the trunk of a tree (e.g., Isaiah 11:1). שֹׁרֶשׁ (shoresh, H8328) — Means 'root,' focusing on the underground source of life, whereas עִקַּר is the visible base or stump above ground.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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