(Aramaic) from the equivalent of דָּחָה; probably a musical instrument (as being struck); instrument of music.
Transliteration:dachăvâh
Pronunciation:dakh-av-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word H1761 (dachăvâh) denotes a musical instrument. Its etymological root is linked to the Aramaic equivalent of the Hebrew H1748 (dāḥâ), which carries the meaning "to push, thrust, or strike." This etymological connection strongly suggests that dachăvâh was likely a percussive instrument, one that produced sound when struck or pushed. While the precise nature and form of the instrument remain a subject of scholarly discussion, the core meaning firmly establishes it as a device used for making music, specifically one activated by impact.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H1761 (dachăvâh) appears only once in the biblical text, specifically in the Book of Daniel.
* [[Daniel 3:5]]: "that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up:"
In this singular occurrence, dachăvâh is listed among a diverse array of musical instruments that comprise King Nebuchadnezzar's royal orchestra. This ensemble was commissioned to provide the auditory signal for all peoples, nations, and languages to prostrate themselves and worship the massive golden image erected on the plain of Dura. The context is one of forced religious conformity and idolatry. While translations vary (e.g., "dulcimer," "bagpipe," "symphony"), its inclusion alongside other well-known instruments like the horn (H7162), flute (H4880), lyre (H7030), sackbut (H5470), and psaltery (H6460) confirms its identity as a legitimate musical instrument within the Babylonian cultural milieu. Its presence underscores the elaborate and syncretistic nature of Babylonian worship and the king's absolute authority.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the Aramaic root equivalent to the Hebrew H1748 (dāḥâ), which denotes "to push, thrust, or strike." This connection is crucial for understanding the likely percussive nature of the dachăvâh.
Other related concepts and words emerge from its context in Daniel 3:
* **Musical Instruments:** The entire list of instruments in [[Daniel 3:5]], [[Daniel 3:7]], [[Daniel 3:10]], and [[Daniel 3:15]] provides a broader understanding of the ancient Near Eastern orchestra. These include the horn (H7162), flute (H4880), lyre (H7030), sackbut (H5470), and psaltery (H6460).
* **Music and Worship:** The concept of "music" (H2170 zᵉmar) is inextricably linked to acts of worship, both true and idolatrous. In this instance, music is employed as a coercive tool for pagan worship.
* **Idolatry:** The golden image itself represents the epitome of idolatry, a direct affront to the worship of the one true God. The dachăvâh is a component of the system designed to enforce this idolatry.
* **Coercion and Authority:** The king's decree and the role of the music highlight themes of royal authority and the attempt to enforce religious compliance through fear and spectacle.
### Theological Significance
While H1761 (dachăvâh) refers to a mere object, its theological significance is profound due to its specific biblical context. The instrument is not inherently evil, but its deployment in [[Daniel 3:5]] places it squarely within a system of forced idolatry. The sound of the dachăvâh, along with the other instruments, served as the signal for universal prostration before a false god. This moment became a critical test of faith for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who famously refused to bow.
The theological importance of dachăvâh thus lies in its function as a tool in the spiritual battle between true worship of Yahweh and the pervasive, coercive idolatry of Babylon. It underscores:
* **The Nature of Idolatry:** How even elements of culture (like music) can be co-opted and corrupted for ungodly purposes.
* **The Cost of Faithfulness:** The dachăvâh's sound heralded a choice—conformity or courageous obedience to God, with dire consequences for the latter.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** Despite the grandeur and coercion of Nebuchadnezzar's display, God's power and deliverance ultimately prevailed, demonstrating His supremacy over all earthly authority and false gods. The exact nature of the instrument pales in comparison to its role in setting the stage for one of the Bible's most dramatic displays of unwavering faith.
### Summary
The Aramaic word H1761 (dachăvâh) identifies a musical instrument, likely percussive, deriving its name from a root signifying "to strike" or "to push." Its sole biblical appearance is in [[Daniel 3:5]], where it is listed as part of King Nebuchadnezzar's grand orchestra. This ensemble's music served as the signal for all peoples to worship the golden image, making the dachăvâh an integral component of a system of forced idolatry. While its precise form remains uncertain, its function within the narrative is clear: it was an instrument of coercion in a pagan religious ceremony. The theological significance of dachăvâh is not in its musical properties but in its pivotal role in the dramatic confrontation between Babylonian idolatry and the unwavering faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. It highlights the pervasive nature of pagan worship and the profound commitment required to remain loyal to the one true God amidst such pressures.
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