### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **Bêlṭᵉshaʼtstsar**, represented by `{{H1096}}`, is the Babylonian **name** `{{H8036}}` given to the Hebrew prophet **Daniel** `{{H1841}}`. It appears **8 times** across **6 unique verses**. This name is explicitly defined as the Babylonian name of Daniel, used within the context of the royal court.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1096}}` is bestowed upon **Daniel** `{{H1841}}` by the **king** `{{H4430}}` [[Daniel 5:12]]. The name was chosen by King Nebuchadnezzar "according to the **name** `{{H8036}}` of my **god** `{{H426}}`" [[Daniel 4:8]]. The name is primarily used when the king addresses Daniel, especially when seeking his unique ability to provide the **interpretation** `{{H6591}}` of a **dream** `{{H2493}}`. For instance, the king asks, "Art thou **able** `{{H3546}}` to make **known** `{{H3046}}` unto me the **dream** `{{H2493}}`...and the **interpretation** `{{H6591}}` thereof?" [[Daniel 2:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use of **Belteshazzar**:
* `{{H1841}}` **Dânîyêʼl** (Danijel, the Hebrew prophet): This is Daniel's Hebrew name, and the text often clarifies the relationship, stating, "**Daniel**, whose **name** `{{H8036}}` was **Belteshazzar**" ([[Daniel 2:26]], [[Daniel 4:19]]).
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king): This word is central to the context of `{{H1096}}`, as it is the **king** who names Daniel and summons him as **Belteshazzar** to interpret visions ([[Daniel 4:18]], [[Daniel 5:12]]).
* `{{H2493}}` **chêlem** (a dream): This word is intrinsically linked to the name **Belteshazzar**, which is almost exclusively used when Daniel is called upon to deal with a royal **dream** and its **interpretation** `{{H6591}}` [[Daniel 4:9]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of the name `{{H1096}}` is tied to Daniel's role in a foreign court.
* **A Royal Designation:** The name is bestowed by a foreign **king** `{{H4430}}` and linked to a pagan deity, as the king states it is "according to the **name** `{{H8036}}` of my **god** `{{H426}}`" [[Daniel 4:8]]. This highlights Daniel's position within the Babylonian system.
* **Recognition of Divine Spirit:** The king uses the name **Belteshazzar** when acknowledging Daniel's unique abilities, stating, "I **know** `{{H3046}}` that the **spirit** `{{H7308}}` of the **holy** `{{H6922}}` **gods** `{{H426}}` is in thee" [[Daniel 4:9]]. The name becomes associated with the power that makes Daniel **able** `{{H3546}}` to reveal secrets.
* **Preservation of Identity:** The narrative consistently clarifies Daniel's identity by stating, "**Daniel**, whose **name** was **Belteshazzar**" [[Daniel 4:19]], ensuring that his Hebrew identity is not lost despite the Babylonian appellation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1096}}` is more than just an alternate name. It is the title given to **Daniel** `{{H1841}}` by the Babylonian **king** `{{H4430}}`, marking his official role as an interpreter of dreams. The use of this name underscores the tension between Daniel's service to a foreign power and the divine **spirit** `{{H7308}}` that set him apart, all while the text carefully preserves his true Hebrew identity.
TRV