חֵ֫סֶן (che.sen)
che.sen
authority
A:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:N-M
Word Overview
The Aramaic noun che.sen denotes royal power or authority, functioning as a direct cognate to the Hebrew word shilton. In the biblical text, it specifically describes the sovereign strength vested in a king, emphasizing the legitimate right to rule and command.
This term appears only once in Scripture, in Daniel 2:37, where King Nebuchadnezzar is acknowledged as having received this dominion from God. The usage highlights that earthly authority is granted by divine decree, framing political power not as self-derived but as a stewardship under higher sovereignty.
By linking the concept directly to kingship, the word underscores the theological weight of governance in the ancient Near East. It serves as a reminder that even the most potent earthly rulers exercise their influence within boundaries established by God, reflecting a worldview where political power and divine will are intimately connected.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we encounter the concept of authority in Scripture, it is easy to focus on human structures or political systems. This Aramaic word, however, points directly to a divine source. It reminds us that true power does not originate from human effort or ambition, but is a gift bestowed by God. In Daniel 2:37, Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges that his kingdom and strength come from the God of heaven.
For your daily life, this offers a profound sense of security. It means that no matter how chaotic the world may seem, ultimate sovereignty rests with God. You do not need to rely on your own strength to navigate difficult seasons or uncertain times. Instead, you can rest in the knowledge that God is the source of all legitimate authority and order.
This perspective invites us to view our own roles with humility and trust. Whether in leadership or service, we are part of a larger divine narrative. We are called to steward what we have been given, recognizing that every gift comes from above. This awareness brings peace, knowing that God is actively involved in the affairs of the earth.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- power/ the1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- חִסְנָ֛/א1×
Key Verses
-
Daniel 2:37
You, O king, are king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power, the strength, and the glory.
This verse explicitly attributes Nebuchadnezzar's power and strength to the God of heaven, establishing the word's core meaning as divinely granted authority.