### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dachăvâh**, represented by `{{H1761}}`, is a term for an **instrument of music**. Its definition suggests it was probably a type of musical instrument that was struck. This word is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single context highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1761}}` is in [[Daniel 6:18]]. The verse describes King Darius's emotional state after he was forced to cast Daniel into the den of lions. After the king `{{H4430}}` went `{{H236}}` to his palace `{{H1965}}`, he passed the night fasting `{{H2908}}`. In a display of his deep distress, the verse explicitly states that neither were **instruments of musick** `{{H1761}}` brought `{{H5954}}` before `{{H6925}}` him. This refusal of entertainment, coupled with his sleeplessness, underscores the gravity of the situation and the king's profound anxiety over Daniel's fate.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Daniel 6:18]] help to frame its meaning:
* `{{H2908}}` **ṭᵉvâth** (fasting): This word, meaning hunger, is used to describe the king's deliberate act of abstaining from food. Its use alongside the refusal of music emphasizes a complete rejection of physical comfort and pleasure.
* `{{H8139}}` **shᵉnâh** (sleep): The text notes that the king's **sleep** went from him. The absence of both music and sleep illustrates a mind consumed by worry and unable to find rest.
* `{{H1965}}` **hêykal** (palace): The setting is the royal **palace**, a place where music and entertainment would typically be present. The specific rejection of music within this opulent setting highlights the unusual and somber nature of the night.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1761}}` is found entirely in its absence. Its refusal by the king carries significant meaning within the narrative.
* **An Indicator of Sincere Distress:** The rejection of music, a common feature of royal life, serves as an outward sign of King Darius's genuine turmoil. He is not indifferent to the fate of Daniel, a man he respected, demonstrating the human consequence of an unchangeable decree.
* **Focus on Divine Intervention:** By stripping away worldly distractions like music and food, the narrative focus shifts entirely to the spiritual realm. The silence in the palace contrasts sharply with the life-or-death situation in the lions' den, creating suspense and pointing toward the need for an act of God.
* **Emphasizing Human Powerlessness:** The king, despite his authority, is shown to be powerless and anxious. His refusal of comfort from **instruments of musick** highlights his inability to change the situation, placing all hope on the power of Daniel's God to deliver him [[Daniel 6:16]].
### Summary
In summary, **dachăvâh** `{{H1761}}` provides a powerful example of how the absence of something can define a moment. Though it is just a word for an **instrument of music**, its single mention as something refused in [[Daniel 6:18]] is critical. It transforms a simple detail into a profound symbol of royal anxiety, sorrow, and the recognition of a conflict that only divine power could resolve. The silence in the king's palace speaks louder than any music could, focusing all attention on the faithfulness of Daniel and the sovereignty of his God.
TRV