### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **yᵉqad**, represented by `{{H3345}}`, is defined as **to burn** or **burning**. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible. All of its occurrences are concentrated within a single narrative, where it is used to describe a state of intense, active fire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3345}}` is found exclusively in the third chapter of Daniel. It is used consistently as part of the phrase "the **burning** fiery furnace" [[Daniel 3:17]]. This furnace is established by King Nebuchadnezzar as the punishment for anyone who refuses to worship the golden image he has made [[Daniel 3:6]]. The word emphasizes the lethal nature of the king's decree, as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are bound and cast into the **burning** furnace for their faithfulness to God ([[Daniel 3:20]], [[Daniel 3:23]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the use of **yᵉqad**:
* `{{H861}}` **ʼattûwn** (probably a fire-place, i.e. furnace; furnace): This term identifies the physical structure that is **burning**. The word is always paired with `{{H3345}}` to describe the state of the **furnace** [[Daniel 3:26]].
* `{{H5135}}` **nûwr** (fire; fiery, fire): This word for **fire** is used alongside `{{H3345}}` to intensify the description. The complete phrase is "the **burning** **fiery** furnace," stressing the nature of the heat within the structure [[Daniel 3:15]].
* `{{H7412}}` **rᵉmâh** (to throw, set... cast (down), impose): This verb denotes the action of punishment. Those who disobey the king's command are to be **cast** into the place described as **burning** `{{H3345}}` [[Daniel 3:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3345}}` is tied directly to the trial of faith in Daniel 3.
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The **burning** furnace is the instrument of a worldly king's judgment, intended to enforce idolatry through fear of a terrifying death [[Daniel 3:11]].
* **A Test of Faithfulness:** For Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, the threat of being cast into the **burning** furnace is the ultimate test of their devotion. Their response shows their trust in God's power to deliver them [[Daniel 3:17]].
* **A Display of Divine Power:** When the three men are delivered from the **burning** furnace unharmed, the fire becomes a backdrop for God's supreme authority over the most powerful and destructive forces created by man [[Daniel 3:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3345}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is inseparable from the narrative of the fiery furnace in Daniel. While its base definition is simply **burning**, its biblical application is focused entirely on describing the instrument of a king's persecution and the stage for a profound demonstration of faith and divine deliverance. Its repeated use in the phrase "**burning** fiery furnace" cements its role as a key descriptor in one of scripture's most dramatic accounts of faithfulness under pressure.
TRV