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.
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.
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.
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.
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