### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **zâkûw**, represented by `{{H2136}}`, conveys the concept of **purity** or **innocency**. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, making its single usage in the book of Daniel particularly noteworthy. Its meaning is directly tied to a state of being blameless and without fault.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2136}}` is found in the account of Daniel in the lions' den. After being miraculously saved, Daniel explains to the king that God sent an angel to protect him. The reason given is that **innocency** was found in him before God. This declaration serves as the justification for divine intervention, highlighting Daniel's righteous standing [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{H7912}}` **shᵉkach** (to discover...; find): This verb is crucial, as Daniel’s **innocency** was not merely claimed but was actively **found** in him by God [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H2255}}` **chăbal** (to ruin; destroy, hurt): This word is used to describe what the lions did **not** do to Daniel, directly contrasting with the reason for his safety—his innocency [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H2248}}` **chăbûwlâh** (hurt): Daniel pairs his innocence before God with his claim of having done no **hurt** before the king, demonstrating a comprehensive blamelessness [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God): The context establishes that the ultimate judge of Daniel's innocency is **God** Himself, before whom it was found [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king): Daniel's innocence is declared not only before God but also before the earthly authority of the **king**, showing his integrity in all relationships [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2136}}` is centered on the principle of divine vindication.
* **A Condition for Divine Protection:** Daniel's deliverance is explicitly linked to his moral state. His **innocency** `{{H2136}}` being "found" `{{H7912}}` before God is the stated cause for God sending an angel `{{H4398}}` to shut the lions' mouths [[Daniel 6:22]].
* **Righteousness Before God and Man:** The term is used to assert Daniel's blamelessness in two spheres. His primary justification is his **innocency** before God, but he immediately follows this by stating he has done no **hurt** `{{H2248}}` to the king [[Daniel 6:22]].
* **The Basis for Deliverance:** The verse structure "forasmuch as... innocency was found" establishes a direct causal link between Daniel's purity and his physical salvation from a deadly threat [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Summary
In summary, while **zâkûw** `{{H2136}}` is a rare word, its singular use provides a powerful lesson on the relationship between personal righteousness and divine action. It defines **innocency** not merely as a lack of guilt but as a positive quality that is recognized by God and serves as the foundation for His miraculous deliverance. The term demonstrates that one's standing before God has direct consequences in the physical world.
TRV