יְדָא

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Aramaic word yᵉdâʼ, represented by H3029, is used to express praise or to give thank(-s). It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This term, corresponding to the Hebrew יָדָה, signifies a direct expression of gratitude, particularly toward God.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, H3029 is found exclusively in the book of Daniel. It is used to describe Daniel's response to God's intervention and his consistent devotion. After God reveals a royal secret, Daniel explicitly states, "I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers" Daniel 2:23. The term is also used to describe his unwavering habit of worship, where even under threat of death, he prayed and gave thanks before his God three times a day Daniel 6:10.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related Aramaic words provide a richer context for the act of giving thanks:

• H7624 shᵉbach (to adulate, i.e. adore; praise): This word for praise is used in direct conjunction with H3029 in Daniel's prayer: "I thank thee, and praise thee" Daniel 2:23, highlighting the close relationship between gratitude and adoration.
• H3046 yᵉdaʻ ((Aramaic) corresponding to יָדַע; {to know...}; certify, know, make known, teach): Thanksgiving is often a response to what God has made known. Daniel gives thanks because God has made known what was requested Daniel 2:23, and he continues to give thanks even after he knew that a prohibitive decree was signed Daniel 6:10.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of H3029 is demonstrated through its specific applications in Daniel.

• Response to Revelation: Giving thanks is presented as the proper response to receiving divine wisdom and knowledge. Daniel's first act after understanding the king's vision is to thank God for making it known Daniel 2:23.
• Act of Unwavering Faith: Gratitude is not dependent on favorable circumstances. Daniel gave thanks as part of his regular worship, even when doing so was outlawed and put his life at risk, showing that thankfulness is an expression of constant devotion Daniel 6:10.
• Component of Worship: The term is explicitly linked with other acts of worship. In Daniel's prayer, giving thanks is coupled with praise Daniel 2:23, and in his daily practice, it is associated with prayer and kneeling before God Daniel 6:10.

Summary

In summary, H3029 is a concise but powerful term for giving thanks. Though it appears only twice, its use in Daniel establishes a clear theological pattern. It portrays gratitude not merely as a reaction to good fortune, but as a disciplined and foundational element of faith, offered in response to God's revelation and as a steadfast expression of worship, regardless of the external situation.