Original Word: רְפַס
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: rphac
Pronunciation: reh-fahs'
Phonetic Spelling: (ref-as')
NASB: trampled down
Word Origin: [(Aramaic) corresponding to H7511 (רָפַס - foul)]

1. stamp

stamp

(Aramaic) corresponding to raphac -- stamp.

see HEBREW raphac

Word Origin
(Aramaic) corresponding to raphas
Definition
to tread, trample
NASB Translation
trampled down (2).

Overview of the Concept

The verb רְפַס portrays the ruthless act of trampling underfoot. In Daniel’s apocalyptic vision the term intensifies the imagery of oppressive world power that crushes every obstacle without mercy. Though limited to two Aramaic occurrences, the word carries weight far beyond its frequency, framing the fourth beast’s character and setting the stage for God’s decisive judgment.

Occurrences in Daniel’s Vision

Daniel 7:7 records, “It devoured and crushed, and whatever was left, it trampled with its feet” (Berean Standard Bible). Verse 19 repeats the description as Daniel seeks clarification. In both verses רְפַס is paired with “devoured” and “crushed,” forming a three-fold crescendo: consumption, pulverization, and trampling. The beast’s violence is not satisfied merely with conquest; it presses its victims into the dust, erasing any possibility of recovery.

Historical Setting

Most conservative interpreters identify the fourth beast with the Roman Empire, whose iron legions subdued the Mediterranean world. Roman conquest often followed the very pattern Daniel foresaw—swift invasion, brutal suppression, and an iron-fisted occupation that left nations figuratively “trampled.” Yet Daniel’s vision reaches farther than one historical empire. By depicting a composite of horns, it anticipates later manifestations of the same domineering spirit until the time when “the court will convene, and his dominion will be taken away” (Daniel 7:26).

Prophetic and Eschatological Emphasis

1. Totalitarian Opposition: רְפַס encapsulates the relentless hostility of world systems against the saints (Daniel 7:21).
2. Divine Timetable: The trampling is allowed only “for a time, times, and half a time” (Daniel 7:25). God’s sovereignty limits evil’s reach.
3. Ultimate Reversal: The very feet that trample are destined to be judged. “The sovereignty, power, and greatness of the kingdoms under all heaven will be given to the people—the saints of the Most High” (Daniel 7:27).

Thus רְפַס underscores a pattern: oppressive force rises, appears invincible, then collapses before the Ancient of Days.

Biblical-Theological Themes

• Dominion Under Judgment – Human empires misuse authority, but the true King calls every ruler to account.
• The Suffering of the Saints – Temporary trampling refines faith and anticipates vindication.
• The Son of Man’s Triumph – The contrast between beastly trampling and the gentle yet everlasting dominion of the Son of Man (Daniel 7:13-14) magnifies the glory of Messiah’s reign.
• Cosmic Conflict – רְפַס parallels New Testament language: Revelation 11:2 speaks of nations trampling the holy city, and Hebrews 10:29 warns against “trampling the Son of God.” Both Old and New Testaments present trampling as the ultimate insult against God’s people and God Himself.

Pastoral and Ministry Application

1. Encouragement amid Persecution – Believers facing authoritarian pressure can trace a biblical pattern: ruthless trampling precedes divine deliverance.
2. Call to Perseverance – Daniel remained steadfast, trusting prophetic certainty over present terror. Churches today imitate his example through faithful witness and prayer.
3. Hope-Filled Eschatology – Teaching on רְפַס directs hearts from the brutality of history to the certainty of Christ’s return, nourishing resilient hope.
4. Ethical Warning – Any leadership that “tramples” the vulnerable imitates the beast, not the Savior. Ministries are therefore urged toward servant-leadership reflecting the Kingdom that replaces trampling with justice and peace.

In sum, רְפַס is a vivid reminder that while earthly power may crush and trample, it can never nullify the purposes of God, who will lift His people from underfoot and establish a kingdom that shall not be destroyed.

רָֽפְסָֽה׃ רָפְסָ֑ה רפסה רפסה׃ rā·p̄ə·sāh rafeSah rāp̄əsāhInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts