שְׂגָא

to increase

Definition

The Aramaic verb שְׂגָא (sᵉgâʼ) means to increase, grow, or be multiplied. In its three biblical occurrences, it consistently describes a state of growth or expansion, often in a positive or prosperous sense. In Ezra 4:22, it is used in a royal decree warning against letting damage to the king 'increase,' implying a growth of loss or harm. In Daniel 4:1 (Aramaic 3:31) and Daniel 6:25 (Aramaic 6:26), it describes the peace and prosperity of Nebuchadnezzar's and Darius's kingdoms 'increasing,' denoting the multiplication of well-being and stability under their rule.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament (Ezra and Daniel). It appears in formal, royal contexts: twice in decrees issued by kings (Daniel 4:1, 6:25) and once in a letter from a Persian official (Ezra 4:22). In each case, it describes an abstract state—either peace or damage—that is subject to growth or multiplication. The pattern shows it is a term for increase used in official administrative and proclamatory language.

Etymology

שְׂגָא is an Aramaic verb, the direct cognate and functional equivalent of the Hebrew verb שָׂגָא (śāgā’, H7679), which also means 'to increase' or 'grow.' Both words share a common Semitic root (*śgʾ) related to increase, abundance, and greatness. In the biblical text, this Aramaic form is used specifically in passages written in that language, showing the linguistic shift but semantic consistency within the context of the Persian empire.

Semantic Range

While not a theologically dense term, שְׂגָא appears in significant contexts that highlight God's sovereignty over kingdoms. In Daniel, the 'increase' of peace is proclaimed by pagan kings (Nebuchadnezzar and Darius) who are acknowledging, directly or indirectly, the power of the God of Daniel. This frames earthly prosperity and stability as being under divine permission and often follows a dramatic demonstration of God's power (e.g., Daniel in the lions' den). It subtly teaches that all growth and multiplication, even in secular empires, ultimately fall under God's providential control.

In the Aramaic-speaking administrative culture of the Persian Empire, this term would be part of the formal vocabulary of state decrees and correspondence. Its use for the 'increase' of peace (שְׁלָם, shᵉlām) reflects a key ideal of ancient Near Eastern kingship: the ruler's primary duty was to ensure and expand the peace, prosperity, and order of his realm. A king announcing that his peace was 'increasing' was making a claim about his successful and legitimate rule.

רָבָה (rāḇâ, H7235) — A more common Hebrew verb for 'to be many, multiply,' used broadly for people, things, or actions. שָׂגָא (śāgā’, H7679) — The direct Hebrew equivalent, identical in meaning but used in Hebrew-language texts. פָּרָה (pārâ, H6509) — Means 'to be fruitful, multiply,' often with a focus on biological or agricultural increase.

Word Details

Scripture References