### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **yath**, represented by `{{H3487}}`, is a grammatical particle that corresponds to the Hebrew word אֵת. It functions as a sign of the object of a verb and can be translated as the phrase **whom**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H3487}}` is in the book of Daniel, where it plays a crucial role in setting the stage for a major confrontation. In a report to King Nebuchadnezzar, certain Chaldeans identify the subjects of their accusation by saying, "There are certain Jews **whom** thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon" [[Daniel 3:12]]. The word points directly to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as the men the king appointed and who now stand accused of defying his authority by refusing to worship the golden image.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H3487}}` is illuminated by several related Aramaic words from the same narrative:
* `{{H3062}}` **Yᵉhûwdâʼîy** (Jew): This word establishes the national and religious identity of the men being accused. The Chaldeans specifically came near to accuse the **Jews** [[Daniel 3:8]].
* `{{H4483}}` **mᵉnâʼ** (to count, appoint): This is the verb for which `{{H3487}}` marks the object. The king had **set** these men in their positions of authority [[Daniel 3:12]], an act which now serves as the basis for the Chaldeans' charge of ingratitude and rebellion.
* `{{H5457}}` **çᵉgid** (worship): This word defines the central point of conflict. The accusation is that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refuse to **worship** the golden image the king has established [[Daniel 3:12]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king): This term underscores the earthly authority being challenged. The accusation is made directly to the **king**, highlighting the severity of the offense against his decree [[Daniel 3:12]].
### Theological Significance
While a simple grammatical marker, the theological weight of `{{H3487}}` comes entirely from its pivotal context in Daniel 3.
* **Identifying the Faithful:** The word **whom** `{{H3487}}` singles out Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, moving them from anonymous officials to the central figures of a divine test. It marks them as the specific individuals whose faithfulness is about to be demonstrated.
* **Object of Persecution:** By identifying the men as the object of the king's appointment, the accusation simultaneously makes them the object of religious persecution. Their refusal to **serve** `{{H6399}}` the king's **gods** `{{H426}}` is presented as a direct disregard for the king who elevated them [[Daniel 3:12]].
* **Nexus of Authority:** The word's usage occurs at the precise intersection of human and divine authority. The men **whom** the king appointed are the very ones who declare their ultimate allegiance to God, stating they will **not** `{{H3809}}` worship the golden image even if it means death [[Daniel 3:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3487}}` is an Aramaic particle whose significance is derived solely from its single, powerful use. While its function is to mark the object of a verb, its appearance in [[Daniel 3:12]] is critical. It grammatically pinpoints Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as the subjects of a narrative that pits the authority of an earthly king against an unwavering loyalty to God, proving that even the smallest words can be instrumental in framing the Bible's most profound stories of faith.
TRV