### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **gôb**, represented by `{{H1358}}`, refers to a **pit** or **den**, typically one that is cut out to hold wild animals. It appears 10 times across 8 unique verses in scripture, with every instance found in the book of Daniel. Its meaning is consistently tied to a place of execution or mortal danger.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1358}}` is the central location for the account of Daniel and the lions. A royal decree establishes that anyone who prays to any god or man other than the king will be cast into the **den** of lions ([[Daniel 6:7]], [[Daniel 6:12]]). Following his steadfast prayer, Daniel is cast into this **den** [[Daniel 6:16]]. The entrance to the **den** is sealed with a stone to ensure the finality of the sentence [[Daniel 6:17]]. However, the **den** becomes the site of Daniel's miraculous deliverance, as he is taken up from it completely unharmed [[Daniel 6:23]]. The narrative concludes with Daniel's accusers being cast into the same **den**, where they are immediately overcome by the lions [[Daniel 6:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words are used in direct connection with the **den**:
* `{{H7412}}` **rᵉmâh** (to cast down): This verb is used repeatedly for the action of throwing individuals into the **den**, both as a threat in the king's decree and as the execution of the sentence for Daniel and his accusers ([[Daniel 6:16]], [[Daniel 6:24]]).
* `{{H744}}` **ʼaryêh** (lion): This word is invariably paired with **gôb**, specifying the nature of the threat contained within. The location is always called the "**den** of **lions**" [[Daniel 6:19]].
* `{{H6433}}` **pum** (mouth): This term describes the opening of the **den**, which was sealed by a stone [[Daniel 6:17]]. It is also used to describe the **mouths** of the lions, which God shut to protect Daniel [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H69}}` **ʼeben** (a stone): This word identifies the object used to seal the mouth of the **den**, securing Daniel inside and making his deliverance an undeniable miracle [[Daniel 6:17]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1358}}` in scripture highlights several key concepts within the narrative of Daniel 6:
* **Instrument of Persecution:** The **den** is established by human law as a tool for punishment, specifically designed to intimidate and eliminate those whose faith conflicts with the king's decree [[Daniel 6:7]].
* **Test of Divine Power:** By casting Daniel into the **den**, the king inadvertently sets the stage for a contest between his own authority and the power of Daniel's God. The king himself asks if God was "able to deliver thee from the lions" [[Daniel 6:20]].
* **Place of Miraculous Salvation:** The **den**, intended as a place of certain death, is transformed into a symbol of God's protection. Daniel's survival is attributed directly to his belief and God's intervention [[Daniel 6:23]].
* **Scene of Final Justice:** The same **den** that served as the stage for Daniel's deliverance becomes the instrument of justice for his accusers, demonstrating a profound reversal of fate [[Daniel 6:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1358}}` is a specific and potent term within the Bible. While it literally means a pit or **den**, its context in Daniel 6 elevates it to a powerful narrative symbol. It represents a place of extreme peril and state-sanctioned judgment, which ultimately serves to magnify the themes of unwavering faith, divine deliverance, and ultimate justice. The **den** is the crucible where human law is shown to be subordinate to God's supreme power.
TRV