(Aramaic) corresponding to זָחַל; to slink, i.e. (by implication) to fear, or (causatively) be formidable; make afraid, dreadful, fear, terrible.
Transliteration:dᵉchal
Pronunciation:deh-khal'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb `{{H1763}}` (דְּחַל, *dᵉchal*) carries a rich semantic range, rooted in the literal sense of "to slink" or "to creep." This foundational meaning implies a posture of submission, retreat, or lowliness, naturally extending to the emotional state of fear or dread. By implication, *dᵉchal* describes the internal experience of being afraid, terrified, or appalled. Causatively, it can also denote the quality of being "formidable," "dreadful," or "terrible"—that which inspires such fear in others. Its close correspondence to the Hebrew verb `{{H2119}}` (זָחַל, *zachál*), which also means "to crawl" or "to shrink back in fear," reinforces this dual understanding of a physical posture leading to an emotional state. Thus, *dᵉchal* encompasses both the subjective experience of fear and the objective quality of being fear-inducing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, `{{H1763}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the Book of Daniel, illuminating various facets of fear and awe:
* **[[Daniel 2:31]]**: Here, *dᵉchal* is used participially to describe the "terrible" (dreadful) appearance of the image in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. The image's brightness and form were such that they inspired awe and terror, highlighting the overwhelming nature of the vision.
* **[[Daniel 4:19]]**: Following the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, Daniel himself is described as being "appalled" (*dᵉchal*) for a time. This signifies a profound internal fear or dismay at the gravity and implications of the prophecy, particularly concerning the king's fate.
* **[[Daniel 5:6]]** and **[[Daniel 5:9]]**: These verses vividly portray Belshazzar's reaction to the mysterious handwriting on the wall. His "knees knocked together" and he was "greatly troubled" (or "feared greatly," *dᵉchal*). This is a visceral, debilitating fear, born of sudden, inexplicable divine judgment. It speaks to a terror that paralyzes and reveals the vulnerability of human power before the divine.
* **[[Daniel 6:26]]**: In a profound shift, King Darius issues a decree commanding that "in every dominion of my kingdom men are to tremble and fear (*dᵉchal*) before the God of Daniel." Here, *dᵉchal* transcends mere terror and ascends to the realm of commanded reverence and awe. It is a fear that acknowledges God's supreme sovereignty and power, demanding respect, submission, and worship rather than flight. This is a fear that leads to life and obedience.
Across these contexts, *dᵉchal* transitions from describing an object of terror (the image), to the personal fear of a prophet (Daniel), to the panic of a condemned king (Belshazzar), and finally to the commanded, reverential awe of the Almighty God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of fear in the biblical languages is rich and diverse. `{{H1763}}` (דְּחַל) finds its closest Hebrew parallel in `{{H2119}}` (זָחַל, *zachál*), which literally means "to crawl" or "to shrink back," and by extension, "to be afraid." This connection underscores the physical manifestation or posture associated with fear.
Other significant Hebrew terms for fear include:
* `{{H3372}}` (יָרֵא, *yare*): The most common Hebrew word for fear, encompassing both paralyzing terror and profound, reverential awe. This term often describes the proper response to God's holiness and power.
* `{{H6342}}` (פָּחַד, *pachad*): Signifies dread, terror, or trembling, often associated with sudden fright or alarm.
* `{{H2729}}` (חָרַד, *charad*): To tremble, be anxious, or be terrified, often with physical manifestations.
In the New Testament, Greek terms like `{{G5399}}` (φοβέω, *phobeō*) and `{{G5401}}` (φόβος, *phobos*) similarly convey both terror and reverential fear. The concept of "the fear of the Lord" (e.g., `{{H3374}}` יִרְאַת יְהוָה) is paramount, denoting a humble, obedient submission to God's will.
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1763}}` in Daniel provides profound theological insights into the nature of fear and the character of God. Initially, it describes the dread inspired by human power and judgment, whether in the form of a terrifying idol or the handwriting of doom. This highlights the transient and often unrighteous nature of earthly authority, which can inspire a debilitating, self-serving fear. Belshazzar's terror is a prime example of such unholy fear—a reaction to impending judgment, devoid of repentance or reverence.
However, the climax of *dᵉchal*'s usage in [[Daniel 6:26]] elevates its meaning significantly. Darius's decree mandates that all people "tremble and fear before the God of Daniel." This is not a fear of incapacitating terror, but a commanded reverence that leads to worship and obedience. It is the appropriate human response to the sovereign, living God who delivers His servants and establishes His kingdom. This "fear of the Lord" is a foundational principle of wisdom and true worship, distinguishing itself sharply from the panic inspired by worldly threats. It signifies an acknowledgement of God's absolute power, holiness, and justice, leading to humility, trust, and faithful living.
### Summary
The Aramaic word `{{H1763}}` (דְּחַל, *dᵉchal*) encapsulates a spectrum of fear, from the physical sensation of shrinking back to the profound emotional states of terror, dread, and reverential awe. Its occurrences in the Book of Daniel vividly illustrate this range: describing the terrifying appearance of an idol, the dismay of a prophet, the paralyzing panic of a condemned king, and ultimately, the commanded, worshipful reverence due to the Almighty God. The theological trajectory of *dᵉchal* moves from a fear that debilitates and judges to a fear that transforms and leads to worship. It underscores the critical distinction between worldly dread, which often springs from self-preservation, and the "fear of the Lord," which is a humble and obedient acknowledgment of God's supreme sovereignty and an essential component of true faith.
TRV