### 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.
TRV