Hebrew Language/Daniel 9:24

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Expert: Gaddy Yaari - 6/7/2009


Question
In Daniel 8, 2300 days could mean 2300 years, and in Daniel 9, 70 weeks could mean 490 years.  My question is the word for "determined", or cut off.  In the original Hebrew, could the 490 years be "cut off" of the 2300 years in Daniel 8? Thank you.

Answer
Barnaby,

If 2300 days could mean 2300 years and 70 weeks could mean 490 years, the obvious question is "Why didn't he say so?". The problem is that we are dealing here in mysticism, and mystics always look for hidden meanings. We can either take their interpretations for gospel, or toss them away.

The Hebrew text is just as unclear as the English translation, and therefore your suggestion is as good as any other.

Gaddy

Hebrew Language

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Gaddy Yaari

Expertise

What I don't do: NO NAME TRANSLATIONS. For that, try http://www.stars21.com/translator/english_to_hebrew.html

What I do: I'll help you understand Hebrew phrases or single words, as well as answer questions about Jewish practices. You may also try the Gooogle English-Hebrew translator, at http://www.google.com/dictionary?langpair=en%7Ciw&q=&hl=en&aq=f

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I am a columnist for a Hebrew-language newspaper, and a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary.

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MBA BA in the US, Grade school and high school in Israel

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