רְבוּ

רְבוּ

increase (of dignity)

Definition

The Aramaic noun רְבוּ (rᵉbûw) denotes 'increase' or 'greatness,' specifically referring to an augmentation of dignity, majesty, and royal authority. In the book of Daniel, it consistently describes the supreme sovereignty granted by God to earthly rulers, as seen in Nebuchadnezzar's kingdom (Daniel 4:22, 4:36). It also signifies the exalted status and power bestowed upon a king, which can be given and taken away by divine will, as illustrated in Belshazzar's reflection on Nebuchadnezzar's reign (Daniel 5:18-19). Ultimately, in Daniel 7:27, the term points to the everlasting 'greatness' of the kingdom that will be given to the saints of the Most High, shifting from human to divine dominion.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the book of Daniel (5 times), always in contexts of royal power and sovereignty. It describes the majestic authority God grants to King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:22, 4:36) and is used retrospectively to explain the nature of his rule to Belshazzar (Daniel 5:18, 5:19). The final occurrence broadens the scope to the eternal kingdom given to God's people (Daniel 7:27), showing a pattern where human 'greatness' is temporary and derived from God, who holds ultimate sovereignty.

Etymology

Derived from an Aramaic root corresponding to the Hebrew root רָבָה (rāḇâ, H7235), meaning 'to be or become great, many, or much.' As a noun, רְבוּ specifically focuses on the state or result of that increase—particularly in terms of dignity, majesty, and magnitude. Its usage in Biblical Aramaic narrows the concept to the realm of royal and divine authority.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the biblical theme that all earthly power and majesty (רְבוּ) are delegated by God and are temporary. It contrasts human kingdoms with God's eternal kingdom, emphasizing divine sovereignty. Understanding this Aramaic term enriches the reading of Daniel by clarifying that the 'greatness' of empires points to the ultimate greatness of God's reign, a core message of apocalyptic literature. In its original Aramaic context, רְבוּ conveyed the grandeur and absolute authority of ancient Near Eastern monarchs, which was often seen as divinely sanctioned. However, the biblical usage subverts this by showing that such majesty is not inherent to the king but is a gift from the God of Israel, who can revoke it. This challenged contemporary cultural views of inherent, permanent royal divinity. גְּדוּלָּה (gᵉḏûllâ, H1420) — A Hebrew synonym for 'greatness' or 'majesty,' often used of God's attributes, whereas רְבוּ is Aramaic and specifically tied to delegated royal authority. מַלְכוּ (malkû, H4437) — An Aramaic word for 'kingdom' or 'reign,' focusing on the domain or rule itself, while רְבוּ emphasizes the majestic quality and dignity of that rule.

Word Details