קֳדָם (qo.dam)
qo.dam
before
A:PrepQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 26 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:Prep
Word Overview
The Aramaic preposition qo.dam means "before" or "in front of," appearing primarily in the books of Daniel and Ezra. It functions similarly to its Hebrew counterpart, indicating spatial position or temporal precedence. In Daniel 2:9, for instance, it helps establish the sequence of events when Nebuchadnezzar demands that his wise men recount both the dream and its interpretation before him.
A notable usage involves the phrase "from before" (min-qo.dam), which conveys removal or origin. This construction appears in Daniel 2:6 and 6:27, where actions are described as being taken away from the king’s presence. The term also carries a sense of authority, as seen in Daniel 5:19, where rulers hold dominion over those who live before them.
Its root relates to the concept of front or anteriority, reinforcing its use in contexts involving physical proximity or precedence in time. Translators typically render it simply as "before," capturing both the literal and figurative senses found in these Aramaic texts.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Aramaic word qo.dam, meaning 'before,' appears frequently in the books of Daniel and Ezra. It describes standing in the presence of authority or occurring earlier in time. In these texts, it often highlights the tension between human power and divine sovereignty. Kings demand answers before their thrones, yet God reveals secrets that no earthly wisdom can provide.
For your faith, this word reminds us that we stand before a God who sees all things clearly. When life feels chaotic or when you face situations beyond your control, remember that history unfolds under His gaze. The same God who revealed dreams to Daniel is present with you today, offering guidance and peace in moments of uncertainty.
Whether you are seeking direction or simply resting in His presence, this term invites confidence. You do not need to manufacture answers or hide from scrutiny. Instead, you can bring your questions directly to the One who holds the future, trusting that He is near and attentive to your heart.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 26 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- before14×
- before/ me4×
- before/ him4×
- before/ it2×
- before/ you1×
- and/ before/ him1×
- [was] before/ it1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- קֳדָ֣ם6×
- קֳדָם\־3×
- קֳדָמ֔וֹ/הִי2×
- קֳדָ֥ם2×
- קָֽדָמַ֔י/הּ1×
- קָֽדָמ֣וֹ/הִי1×
- קָדָמָֽ/י\׃1×
- קָֽדָמָ֗/ךְ1×
- קָֽדָמַ֗/י1×
- קָֽדָמַ֔/י1×
- קֳדָמָ֑/י1×
- קֳדָמַ֖/הּ1×
Key Verses
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Daniel 2:9
But if you don’t make known to me the dream, there is but one law for you; for you have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, until the situation changes. Therefore tell me the dream, and I will know that you can show me its interpretation.”
This verse shows the king using the word to accuse the wise men of lying in his presence, highlighting the high stakes of standing before earthly authority without truth.
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Daniel 5:19
Because of the greatness that he gave him, all the peoples, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him. He killed whom he wanted to, and he kept alive whom he wanted to. He raised up whom he wanted to, and he put down whom he wanted to.
Here the term illustrates the fear and submission people felt toward Nebuchadnezzar’s power, serving as a contrast to the ultimate authority of God.
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Daniel 7:10
A fiery stream issued and came out from before him. Thousands of thousands ministered to him. Ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The judgment was set. The books were opened.
In this vision, thousands stand before the Ancient of Days, emphasizing that all judgment and history are ultimately accounted for in God's presence.
-
Ezra 4:23
Then when the copy of King Artaxerxes’ letter was read before Rehum, Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they went in haste to Jerusalem to the Jews, and made them to cease by force of arms.
The copy of the king’s letter was read before officials, showing how administrative decisions were made publicly and formally in the court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does qo.dam mean in the Bible?
Why is this word important in the book of Daniel?
How is qo.dam different from other Hebrew words for 'before'?
Does this word imply fear or respect?
Every Occurrence (26 verses across 2 books)
Ezra 4 verses
The letter which you sent to us has been plainly read before me.
Ezra 4:23Then when the copy of King Artaxerxes’ letter was read before Rehum, Shimshai the scribe, and their companions, they…
Ezra 7:14Because you are sent by the king and his seven counselors to inquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem, according to the…
Ezra 7:19The vessels that are given to you for the service of the house of your God, deliver before the God of Jerusalem.