### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ṭabbâch**, represented by `{{H2877}}`, is defined as a **guard** or lifeguardsman. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, signifying a highly specific role within the narrative of the book of Daniel. The term denotes an official executioner or a member of the royal guard tasked with carrying out the king's commands.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H2877}}` is found in the account of King Nebuchadnezzar's decree to kill the wise men of Babylon. Arioch is identified as the captain of the king's **guard** [[Daniel 2:14]]. In this capacity, Arioch had "gone forth to slay the wise men of Babylon" [[Daniel 2:14]]. The term's context is therefore one of mortal danger and the execution of royal authority, setting the stage for Daniel's divine intervention when he approaches this official with "counsel and wisdom" to avert the slaughter.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from its immediate context help clarify the function of the **ṭabbâch**:
* `{{H7229}}` **rab** (captain, chief, great, lord, master, stout): This title is used directly with **ṭabbâch** to describe Arioch as the "captain of the guard," indicating his position of command over the king's executioners [[Daniel 2:14]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king; king, royal): The **guard** operates under the direct authority of the **king**, serving as the instrument for his commands and decrees [[Daniel 2:14]].
* `{{H6992}}` **qᵉṭal** (to kill; slay): This verb specifies the deadly nature of the guard's mission in this passage, showing that the role involved carrying out capital punishment [[Daniel 2:14]].
* `{{H746}}` **ʼĂryôwk** (Arjok, the name of two Babylonians; Arioch): This is the proper name of the individual who held the title of the king's **guard** and with whom Daniel directly interacted to stop the execution [[Daniel 2:14]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H2877}}` is significant despite its single appearance, highlighting a critical theme.
* **Agent of Royal Authority:** The **guard** functions as the enforcer of the king's absolute and volatile power. His mission to **slay** the wise men demonstrates the life-and-death consequences of a royal decree in Babylon [[Daniel 2:14]].
* **Human Peril and Divine Intervention:** The presence of the **guard** on his lethal mission creates the dramatic tension that requires God's intervention through Daniel. The moment Daniel answers the **guard** with **counsel** and **wisdom** marks the intersection of divine providence with deadly human power [[Daniel 2:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2877}}` **ṭabbâch** is a specific term for a royal **guard** or executioner whose role is central to the dramatic events of Daniel 2. Though it appears only once, its context is pivotal, establishing the mortal peril faced by the wise men of Babylon and setting the scene for Daniel to demonstrate the power of God. The word encapsulates the severe nature of Babylonian royal authority and the crisis from which Daniel and his companions were delivered.
TRV