תְּקָף (ti.qaph)
ti.qaph
might
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 teqaph denotes strength or might, serving as the cognate form of the Hebrew toqeph (H8633). In the Book of Daniel, this term appears in two distinct contexts that highlight its semantic range. It describes the tangible power held by earthly rulers, specifically referencing King Nebuchadnezzar’s authority in Daniel 2:37 and his subsequent advice regarding righteousness in Daniel 4:27.
While often translated simply as "might," the word carries a sense of robust capability or force. Its usage in Daniel underscores the temporary nature of human power compared to divine sovereignty. Translators typically render it as "strength" or "power," capturing the physical and political weight attributed to the kings who ruled over vast territories during that historical period.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word teqaph appears in Daniel 2:37 as part of Nebuchadnezzar’s confession to God. It describes the strength and power given by the God of heaven to earthly rulers. This reminds us that all authority, no matter how great, comes from a higher source.
When we face leaders or systems with overwhelming influence, it helps to remember that their power is not ultimate. Human might is temporary, but God’s sovereignty endures forever. We can trust in His plan even when the world seems out of control.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ strength/ the1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/תָקְפָּ֥/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 uses teqaph to describe the strength given by God to Nebuchadnezzar, showing that human power is derived from divine authority.