(Aramaic) probably from דּוּר; circle or dwelling; Dura, a place in Babylonia; Dura.
Transliteration:Dûwrâʼ
Pronunciation:doo-raw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term H1757 (Dûwrâʼ) is a proper noun, specifically a place name, derived from the root דּוּר (dûr), which carries the core meaning of "circle" or "dwelling." This etymological connection suggests that the place named Dura may have been characterized by a circular shape, perhaps a fortified enclosure, a circular plain, or simply a significant habitation. While the precise topographical features of the ancient plain of Dura are debated by scholars, the name itself points to a defined, perhaps enclosed, area of settlement or activity. Its primary semantic function in biblical literature is solely to identify a specific geographical location in Babylonia.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H1757 appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, specifically in [[Daniel 3:1]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, as the plain of Dura serves as the dramatic setting for one of the most iconic narratives of biblical faithfulness and divine intervention.
In [[Daniel 3:1]], King Nebuchadnezzar erects an enormous golden image and commands all his officials and subjects to worship it. The verse states: "King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold, ninety feet high and nine feet wide, and set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon." The plain of Dura thus becomes the designated stage for a grand display of imperial power and idolatry. It is here that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego famously refuse to bow down, leading to their miraculous preservation in the fiery furnace. The plain, therefore, is not merely a backdrop but a crucial element in the narrative, symbolizing the public arena where the conflict between human decree and divine sovereignty is played out. Its designation as a "plain" suggests an open, expansive area suitable for large-scale public gatherings and displays, amplifying the public nature of both the idolatry and the subsequent divine vindication.
### Related Words & Concepts
The Aramaic H1757 is directly linked to the Hebrew root `{{H1752}}` (dûr), which means "to go in a circle," "to dwell," or "to abide." This shared etymology reinforces the notion of a circumscribed or inhabited place. While H1757 itself is a proper noun, its connection to the concept of "dwelling" or "habitation" is noteworthy.
Beyond its etymological roots, the plain of Dura is contextually related to several key biblical concepts:
* **Idolatry:** The plain is the site of the golden image, a stark symbol of human-made deity and a direct challenge to the worship of the one true God.
* **Imperial Power:** It represents the immense, yet ultimately limited, authority of the Babylonian empire.
* **Faithfulness under Persecution:** The events at Dura highlight the unwavering commitment of God's servants in the face of death.
* **Divine Intervention:** The miraculous preservation of the three men in the fiery furnace, and the appearance of the "fourth man," underscores God's active presence and power in human affairs.
* **Public Witness:** The setting on a "plain" emphasizes the public nature of the challenge and the subsequent divine demonstration, serving as a powerful witness to all present.
### Theological Significance
The plain of Dura, though a geographical location, carries profound theological significance as the chosen stage for a pivotal confrontation between the kingdom of God and the kingdoms of this world. It is the place where human pride and idolatry reach a zenith, embodied in Nebuchadnezzar's colossal image and his demand for universal worship. This act directly challenges God's exclusive claim to worship, as articulated in the first two commandments ([[Exodus 20:3-5]]).
The theological drama at Dura unfolds as a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty over all earthly powers. The refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to compromise their faith, even unto death, serves as an enduring paradigm of faithfulness. Their steadfastness in the face of the furnace, and God's subsequent miraculous preservation of them, publicly vindicates their God and humiliates the idolatrous king. The presence of the "fourth man" in the furnace ([[Daniel 3:25]]) further underscores God's intimate involvement and protective presence with His faithful servants in their darkest trials. Thus, the plain of Dura becomes a sacred site of revelation, where the true God is glorified, His servants are honored, and the futility of human idolatry is exposed for all to see.
### Summary
H1757 (Dûwrâʼ) is an Aramaic proper noun referring to the plain of Dura, a specific geographical location in the province of Babylon. Its etymological root suggests a "circle" or "dwelling," possibly indicating a circular or inhabited plain. The word's singular, yet highly significant, appearance in the Bible is in [[Daniel 3:1]], where it identifies the precise setting for King Nebuchadnezzar's idolatrous display of a golden image. The plain of Dura thus serves as the crucial stage for the dramatic confrontation between Babylonian imperial power and the unwavering faithfulness of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Theologically, Dura symbolizes the arena where God's ultimate sovereignty over human idolatry and earthly kingdoms is powerfully demonstrated through miraculous intervention and the vindication of His loyal servants.
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