### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **kᵉdab**, represented by `{{H3538}}`, directly translates to **false** or **lying**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures, marking a highly specific usage. Its singular appearance is in the context of an accusation of deliberate deception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H3538}}` is found in the book of Daniel. King Nebuchadnezzar, frustrated with his wise men's inability to reveal his dream, accuses them of conspiring to deceive him. He claims they have prepared "**lying** and corrupt words to speak before me" in an effort to stall for time [[Daniel 2:9]]. Here, **kᵉdab** describes a premeditated falsehood, a story concocted to mislead a powerful authority when the truth is inaccessible.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words in this passage help to define the context of this accusation:
* `{{H7844}}` **shᵉchath** (corrupt, fault): This word is used in direct conjunction with **kᵉdab**, describing the "lying and **corrupt** words" the advisors are accused of preparing. This pairing suggests a falsehood that is not merely incorrect but also morally decayed or ruinous [[Daniel 2:9]].
* `{{H4406}}` **millâh** (word): This identifies the medium of the deception. The advisors are fabricating **words** and discourse to present to the king, highlighting that the issue is one of deceitful speech [[Daniel 2:9]].
* `{{H2164}}` **zᵉman** (prepare): The king states that the wise men have **prepared** these lying words. This implies a conscious and deliberate effort to fabricate a response, rather than a simple mistake or ignorance [[Daniel 2:9]].
### Theological Significance
Though used only once, the theological context for `{{H3538}}` is significant within the narrative of Daniel:
* **Human Deceit vs. Divine Truth:** The accusation of preparing **lying** words arises from the failure of human wisdom to access a divinely-given dream. This sets a clear contrast between the falsehoods of men under pressure and the truth that is later revealed through Daniel by God [[Daniel 2:9]].
* **Integrity under Pressure:** The word appears in a moment of intense political and mortal danger. The king's advisors are accused of resorting to falsehood to save themselves from a royal **decree** `{{H1882}}` of death, highlighting the conflict between truth and self-preservation.
* **The Corrupting Nature of Falsehood:** By being paired with **shᵉchath** `{{H7844}}`, the lie is characterized as something inherently **corrupt**. It is not a neutral act but one that reflects a deeper fault, standing in opposition to the purity of divine revelation and wisdom.
### Summary
In summary, **kᵉdab** `{{H3538}}` provides a sharp and focused definition of a deliberate, fabricated lie. Its single occurrence in [[Daniel 2:9]] is pivotal, establishing a core theme of the chapter: the failure and corruption of human attempts at wisdom when confronted with the need for divine truth. The word encapsulates the charge against Nebuchadnezzar's advisors, framing their intended speech as both a calculated deception and a corrupt act.
TRV