קַדִּישׁ

Definition

The Aramaic noun קַדִּישׁ (qaddîysh) means 'holy one' or 'saint,' referring specifically to a being or person set apart as sacred, often in a divine or celestial context. In the book of Daniel, it primarily denotes angelic beings who are members of God's heavenly court, as seen when 'a watcher and a holy one' descends in Daniel 4:13. It can also refer to the supreme 'Holy One' or God Himself, as implied in Daniel 4:8-9 and Daniel 5:11. Additionally, in its plural form, it is used for the 'saints' or holy people of God who will receive an everlasting kingdom (Daniel 7:18).

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Daniel (chapters 2-7). It appears in contexts involving divine revelation, judgment, and sovereignty, often when heavenly beings interact with human kingdoms. For example, it describes the 'holy ones' (angels) who announce God's decrees concerning King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:17) and interpret the vision of the great tree (Daniel 4:23). It also refers to the 'saints' as God's faithful people who will inherit future dominion (Daniel 7:18).

Etymology

קַדִּישׁ is the Aramaic cognate of the Hebrew word קָדוֹשׁ (qâdôwsh, H6918), both deriving from the Semitic root Q-D-Š, meaning 'to be set apart' or 'holy.' In Aramaic, it carries the same core idea of sacred separation but is adapted within the linguistic and cultural context of the Babylonian court where Daniel served. Its usage in Daniel directly parallels the Hebrew concept of holiness applied to God, angels, and God's covenant people.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it bridges the concepts of heavenly and earthly holiness within God's sovereign plan. It highlights the reality of a holy celestial council (Daniel 4:17) and affirms that ultimate dominion belongs to God and His saints (Daniel 7:18). Understanding this Aramaic term enriches the biblical theme of God's holiness extending beyond Israel to rule over all nations, as revealed in Daniel's prophecies. It underscores that holiness is an attribute of God's very being, His angelic messengers, and His faithful people who are set apart for His purposes.

In the Aramaic-speaking Babylonian and Persian court setting of Daniel, the term would have resonated with concepts of the divine and sacred known in Mesopotamian cultures, where kings often interacted with priestly and celestial figures. However, Daniel uniquely applies it to the one true God of Israel and His angels, subverting pagan understandings of holiness and asserting Yahweh's supreme authority over all earthly empires and their deities.

קָדוֹשׁ (qâdôwsh, H6918) — The primary Hebrew equivalent, used broadly for God, places, things, and people set apart as holy. מַלְאָךְ (mal'âk, H4397) — A Hebrew term for 'messenger' or 'angel,' focusing on function rather than the inherent sacred status of קַדִּישׁ. חָסִיד (châsîyd, H2623) — A Hebrew word often translated 'godly' or 'faithful one,' emphasizing covenant loyalty and piety, whereas קַדִּישׁ emphasizes being set apart as sacred.

Word Details

Scripture References