The Aramaic word bâʻûw, represented by H1159, signifies a request or petition. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, both within the book of Daniel. The term is derived from the Aramaic root H1156, which means to seek or ask.
In the biblical narrative, H1159 is used exclusively in the context of Daniel's trial of faith. The king's officials conspire to establish a decree forbidding anyone from asking a petition of any god or man other than the king for thirty days Daniel 6:7. Subsequently, Daniel is accused of violating this decree, as he continues to make his petition three times a day Daniel 6:13. In both instances, the word highlights a formal act of supplication that is legally targeted by the royal edict.
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller understanding of the context in which a petition is made:
- H1156 bᵉʻâʼ (to seek or ask): This is the verb from which H1159 is derived. It appears in the same verses, describing the action of "asking a petition" Daniel 6:7 and Daniel "maketh his petition" Daniel 6:13. It is also used when Daniel and his friends desire mercies from God Daniel 2:18 and when Daniel requested something of the king Daniel 2:49.
- H633 ʼĕçâr (decree): This word for a legal interdict is set in direct opposition to H1159. The royal decree was specifically created to outlaw Daniel's act of making a petition to God Daniel 6:7. This highlights the legal and spiritual conflict at the heart of the narrative.
The theological weight of H1159 is concentrated in the story of Daniel's faithfulness.
- A Test of Allegiance: The word petition is not used for a casual request, but for an act of worship and supplication that becomes the focal point of a legal and spiritual test. The decree H633 is aimed squarely at prohibiting this petition Daniel 6:7.
- An Expression of Unwavering Faith: Daniel's choice to continue making his petition H1159 to God, three times a day, is presented as the primary evidence of his disregard for the king's command and his steadfast loyalty to God Daniel 6:13.
- Centrality of Prayer: The narrative uses petition to underscore the non-negotiable nature of Daniel's communication with God. His commitment to this practice, even under threat of death, highlights prayer as an essential act of devotion.
In summary, H1159 bâʻûw is a specific Aramaic term for a petition or request. Though it appears only twice, its context in Daniel chapter 6 gives it significant weight. It represents the specific act of prayer that becomes a flashpoint for a conflict between divine law and human authority. The story hinges on the prohibition of this petition and Daniel's faithful continuation of it, making it a powerful symbol of unwavering devotion to God in the face of persecution.
TRV