Original Word: חֲתַם
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: chatham
Pronunciation: khaw-tham'
Phonetic Spelling: (khath-am')
Definition: To seal, to close up, to make an end
Meaning: to seal

seal

(Aramaic) a root corresponding to chatham; to seal -- seal.

see HEBREW chatham

Word Origin
(Aramaic) corresponding to chatham
Definition
to seal
NASB Translation
sealed (1).

Word Origin: Corresponds to the Hebrew root חָתַם (ḥāṯam), which means "to seal."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • Strong's Greek Number 4972: σφραγίζω (sphragizō) • to seal, to set a seal upon, to mark with a seal.
• Strong's Greek Number 4973: σφραγίς (sphragis) • a seal, a signet, a mark of authentication.

These Greek terms carry similar connotations of authority, authenticity, and finality, reflecting the continuity of the concept of sealing from the Old Testament into the New Testament.

Usage: This Aramaic verb is used in the context of sealing documents or decrees, often implying the act of making something official or final.

Context: The Aramaic verb חֲתַם (ḥăṯam) appears in the context of the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Daniel and Ezra, which contain significant portions written in Aramaic. The act of sealing in the ancient Near Eastern context was a critical process for validating documents, securing decrees, and ensuring the authenticity of communications. In the book of Daniel, the term is used to describe the sealing of the lion's den, indicating the irrevocable nature of the decree (Daniel 6:17). The seal served as a mark of authority and finality, often involving a signet ring or a similar device to impress a unique mark onto clay or wax.

In the broader biblical narrative, sealing is a metaphor for divine authority and protection, as seen in various passages where God seals His people for preservation or judgment. The concept of sealing is also significant in eschatological contexts, where it symbolizes the completion of God's purposes and the protection of His covenant people.

וְחַתְמַ֨הּ וחתמה vechatMah wə·ḥaṯ·mah wəḥaṯmahInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts