The Aramaic word ṭᵉʼêb, represented by H2868, is a primitive root meaning to rejoice; be glad. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the entire biblical text.
The sole appearance of H2868 is in the book of Daniel, capturing a moment of profound relief and joy. After Daniel survives the night in the lion's den, the scripture states, "Then was the king exceeding glad for him" Daniel 6:23. This gladness prompts the king to command that Daniel be taken up out of the den. The narrative highlights that Daniel was found completely unharmed because he had believed in his God.
Several related words from the surrounding text provide a fuller picture of this event:
- H4430 melek (a king): This Aramaic word identifies the person experiencing the gladness. The king is central to the narrative, first commanding Daniel to be cast into the den and later rejoicing at his deliverance Daniel 6:16.
- H1358 gôb (a pit (for wild animals); den): This term specifies the location of peril from which Daniel was saved. The decree was that those who disobeyed the king would be cast into the den of lions Daniel 6:7.
- H540 'ăman (to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe): Daniel's deliverance and the king's subsequent gladness are explicitly linked to the fact that Daniel believed in his God Daniel 6:23. This same root word is used to describe Daniel as faithful when his enemies could find no fault in him Daniel 6:4.
The theological weight of H2868 is derived entirely from its unique context.
- Joy in Divine Deliverance: The king's gladness is a direct response to a miraculous act of God. It demonstrates how God's power to save can evoke powerful, positive emotions even in a pagan ruler.
- Vindication of Faith: The joy expressed by the king serves as a public vindication of Daniel's unwavering faith. Daniel's survival, which caused the king's gladness, was because he "believed in his God" Daniel 6:23.
- Emotional Turning Point: The king's gladness marks a dramatic shift. He had approached the den with a "lamentable voice" Daniel 6:20, but upon seeing Daniel safe, his sorrow turns to exceeding joy, leading him to issue a decree honoring the God of Daniel Daniel 6:26.
In summary, while H2868 is used only once, it marks the emotional climax of a significant biblical story. It encapsulates the king's reaction not just to his servant's survival, but to the undeniable power of God. The word ṭᵉʼêb captures the moment where despair turns to joy, acknowledging that faithfulness to God can lead to miraculous deliverance and profoundly impact even the highest earthly authorities.
TRV