דֹּב

דֹּב

Definition

The Hebrew noun דֹּב (dôb) refers to a bear, specifically a large, powerful, and often dangerous mammal. In the Bible, it is used both literally to describe the animal (e.g., 2 Kings 2:24) and metaphorically to symbolize ferocity, destructive power, or a terrifying enemy. In its sole Aramaic occurrence in Daniel 7:5, it is part of a prophetic vision depicting a bear-like beast representing a powerful, devouring kingdom. The word consistently conveys a sense of raw, unpredictable strength.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, appearing only once in Daniel 7:5. In this apocalyptic vision, the bear is the second of four beasts, symbolizing the Medo-Persian Empire. The description—raised up on one side, with three ribs in its mouth—emphasizes its predatory and conquering nature. This symbolic usage aligns with the few Hebrew uses of its counterpart (H1677), where bears are agents of sudden, violent judgment (as in 2 Kings 2:24) or symbols of a fierce adversary (Proverbs 17:12).

Etymology

The Aramaic noun דֹּב (dôb) corresponds directly to the Hebrew דֹּב (H1677), both meaning 'bear.' It derives from a common Semitic root (d-b) associated with the animal. The word's form and meaning are stable across biblical Hebrew and Aramaic, indicating a shared cultural understanding of the creature's defining characteristics.

Semantic Range

In its symbolic use in Daniel 7, the bear contributes to the Bible's theme of human kingdoms as predatory, beastly forces contrasted with God's coming, everlasting kingdom represented by a 'son of man.' It illustrates God's sovereign control over the rise and fall of empires, even those characterized by brutal conquest. Understanding this imagery enriches the reading of apocalyptic literature, highlighting the contrast between earthly power, which often consumes and destroys, and divine authority. In the ancient Near East, bears (likely the Syrian brown bear) were a real and feared danger, known for their strength and potential to attack livestock and humans (as seen in 1 Samuel 17:34-37). This made them a potent symbol for military might and sudden devastation. The description in Daniel 7:5 of the bear 'raised up on one side' may reflect the perceived imbalance of power within the Medo-Persian alliance, with Persia being dominant. אֲרִי (ʾărî, H738) — lion; a different predator often symbolizing royal power and majesty. כְּפִיר (kĕp̄îr, H3715) — young lion; emphasizes vigor and strength. שַׁחַל (šahal, H7826) — lion or leopard; denotes a powerful, lurking beast.

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