### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **bᵉʻâʼ**, represented by `{{H1156}}`, means **to seek or ask**. It appears 12 times across 12 unique verses. Its usage covers a range of actions, including to "ask, desire, make (petition), pray, request, seek."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, all occurrences of `{{H1156}}` are found in the book of Daniel, highlighting its role in contexts of petition and investigation. It is used when Daniel and his friends **desire** mercies from the God of heaven concerning a secret [[Daniel 2:18]] and when Daniel **requests** time from the king [[Daniel 2:16]]. The word also carries a sense of active searching, as when Daniel's adversaries **sought** to find occasion against him [[Daniel 6:4]] or when they **sought** for Daniel and his fellows to be slain [[Daniel 2:13]]. It is notably used for the act of prayer, where Daniel is found **praying** and making supplication to his God [[Daniel 6:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide additional context for the act of asking and seeking:
* `{{H1159}}` **bâʻûw** (petition): This noun is derived from `{{H1156}}` and refers to the request itself. It is used in the decree that forbids anyone from asking a **petition** of any god or man other than the king [[Daniel 6:7]].
* `{{H2604}}` **chănan** (shew mercy, make supplication): This word often appears alongside acts of prayer. Daniel was found praying and **making supplication** before his God, showing the earnest nature of his petitions [[Daniel 6:11]].
* `{{H7912}}` **shᵉkach** (find): This verb is often the goal of the action of "seeking." The presidents and princes sought `{{H1156}}` to **find** `{{H7912}}` a fault in Daniel but could not [[Daniel 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1156}}` is seen in its application to both human and divine interactions.
* **Petitioning Authority:** The word is used for making requests to both earthly kings and the God of heaven. Daniel **requested** that the king set his friends over the affairs of Babylon [[Daniel 2:49]], and he and his friends **desired** mercy from God [[Daniel 2:18]].
* **Faithfulness in Prayer:** Daniel's unwavering commitment to God is defined by his use of `{{H1156}}`. He is accused of **making** his petition three times a day despite a royal decree forbidding it [[Daniel 6:13]], demonstrating that prayer was a non-negotiable act of faith for him.
* **Seeking with Intent:** The word demonstrates that "seeking" can have different motives. While Daniel **sought** knowledge from God [[Daniel 2:23]], his enemies **sought** fault in him [[Daniel 6:4]], illustrating that the same action can be driven by either righteous or malicious intent.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1156}}` **bᵉʻâʼ** is a versatile Aramaic term that encapsulates the act of asking and seeking. Its exclusive use in Daniel highlights critical moments of petition, from formal requests directed at a king to life-defining prayers directed at God. It illustrates how the act of seeking can be a demonstration of faith, a plea for understanding, or a tool for malice.
TRV