### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chûwb**, represented by `{{H2325}}`, is a primitive root with a meaning connected to owing a debt or, by implication, to forfeit or **make endanger**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entire biblical text. Its singular appearance makes its context particularly significant for understanding its meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H2325}}` is found in the book of Daniel. The prince of the eunuchs expresses his anxiety to Daniel about a special dietary request, fearing the king's reaction. He worries that Daniel and his friends will appear in poorer health than the other young men, stating, "then shall ye **make me endanger** my head to the king" [[Daniel 1:10]]. In this context, the word conveys a sense of liability and forfeiture; the prince believes he will owe his very life to the king as a penalty if Daniel's appearance is not satisfactory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The narrative surrounding this word is built upon several key terms:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): This word identifies the speaker as "a head person" or **prince**. The prince of the eunuchs is a figure of authority who is himself under the authority of the king [[Daniel 1:10]].
* `{{H1840}}` **Dânîyêʼl** (Daniel): As the recipient of the prince's warning, **Daniel** is the central figure whose actions create this situation of potential danger [[Daniel 1:10]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (king): The **king** is the ultimate authority in this scene, the one to whom the prince is accountable and whose judgment he fears [[Daniel 1:10]].
* `{{H3373}}` **yârêʼ** (fear): This describes the prince's emotional state. His motivation is not reverence but being **afraid** of the consequences from his lord, the king [[Daniel 1:10]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (head): This represents what the prince stands to forfeit. The endangerment is not abstract; it is a literal risk to his **head**, or his life [[Daniel 1:10]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the theological weight of `{{H2325}}` is demonstrated through the principles at play in its context.
* **Accountability to Authority:** The word highlights the concept of being answerable to a higher power. The prince `{{H8269}}` is accountable to the king `{{H4428}}` for the well-being of the youths under his care.
* **Consequence and Forfeiture:** **Chûwb** directly points to the severe consequences of perceived failure. The prince fears he will have to forfeit his head `{{H7218}}`, illustrating that in systems of absolute rule, the debt for failure can be one's own life [[Daniel 1:10]].
* **Human Fear vs. Divine Faithfulness:** The prince's fear of endangering himself stands in stark contrast to Daniel's resolve to remain undefiled [[Daniel 1:8]]. The situation created by **chûwb** serves as a backdrop against which God's ability to preserve his servants is later revealed.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2325}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is precisely illustrated in its single biblical use. It encapsulates the idea of being liable to forfeit something of great value, specifically one's life, as a debt owed to a higher authority. The word vividly portrays the personal risk and accountability felt by the prince of the eunuchs, setting the stage for a demonstration of God's power in the narrative of Daniel.
TRV