תְּקֵף
to become (causatively, make) mighty or (figuratively) obstinate
Definition
The Aramaic verb תְּקֵף (tᵉqêph) primarily means 'to become strong' or 'to be mighty,' often describing the growth and power of a tree or kingdom. In a causative sense, it means 'to make firm' or 'to strengthen,' as seen when God establishes a ruler's authority (Daniel 4:22). Figuratively, it can convey obstinacy or hardness, such as when a heart becomes hardened in pride (Daniel 5:20). The word captures both physical strength and metaphorical firmness, depending on context.
Biblical Usage
This word occurs exclusively in the Aramaic portions of Daniel, describing the growth and strength of a great tree representing King Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom (Daniel 4:11, 20, 22). It also depicts the hardening of a king's heart in pride (Daniel 5:20) and the firm establishment of a law (Daniel 6:7). Its usage consistently relates to royal power, either in its flourishing or in its arrogant rigidity.
Etymology
תְּקֵף is the Aramaic cognate of the Hebrew verb תָּקַף (H8630), meaning 'to be strong' or 'to prevail.' Both derive from a common Semitic root conveying strength and firmness. The Aramaic form specifically appears in biblical texts influenced by imperial contexts, reflecting its use in official or royal declarations.
Semantic Range
This word highlights themes of divine sovereignty and human pride. In Daniel, God is the one who strengthens kingdoms (Daniel 4:22) and humbles those whose hearts become hardened with arrogance (Daniel 5:20). It underscores that true strength comes from God's decree, not human achievement, warning against self-reliance and pride.
In the ancient Near East, trees were common symbols for kingdoms and rulers, making the description of a tree 'growing strong' (Daniel 4:11) culturally resonant. The concept of a 'hardened' heart (Daniel 5:20) reflects a worldview where obstinacy, especially in leaders, was seen as a moral failure leading to downfall.
חֲזַק (ḥăzaq, H2388) — emphasizes physical strength or holding fast; אָמַץ (ʾāmats, H553) — denotes being strong or courageous; כָּבַד (kāḇaḏ, H3513) — can mean to be heavy or honored, but also to be hardened (as in heart).
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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