### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **kârôwz**, represented by `{{H3744}}`, refers to a **herald**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting a specific and singular role within the biblical text. The term defines an official who is tasked with making a public proclamation on behalf of a sovereign authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H3744}}` is found in the account of Nebuchadnezzar's golden image. In this narrative, a **herald** is tasked with issuing a royal decree, crying "aloud" with a command for "O people, nations, and languages" to fall down and worship the image [[Daniel 3:4]]. This positions the **herald** as a crucial link between the king's authority and the general populace, responsible for the clear and forceful communication of official orders.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the function and context of the herald:
* `{{H7123}}` **qᵉrâʼ** ({to call out to... call, cry, read}): This word describes the primary action of the **herald**, who "cried aloud" to deliver the message [[Daniel 3:4]]. The same term is used when the king **cried** for his wise men to be brought in [[Daniel 5:7]].
* `{{H560}}` **ʼămar** ({to say... command, declare, say, speak, tell}): This term defines the nature of the herald's proclamation as a direct command from the king. The message begins, "To you it is **commanded**" [[Daniel 3:4]].
* `{{H2429}}` **chayil** (an army, or strength; aloud, army, [idiom] most (mighty), power): Used to describe the manner of the proclamation, this word signifies that the **herald** cried "aloud," delivering the message with authority [[Daniel 3:4]]. It is also used to describe the "most mighty" men in the king's army [[Daniel 3:20]].
* `{{H5972}}` **ʻam** ({a people (as a congregated unit)...}): This word identifies the primary audience of the herald's proclamation, which was addressed to all **people**, nations, and languages [[Daniel 3:4]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H3744}}` appears in a secular context, its function carries thematic weight:
* **Authoritative Proclamation:** The **herald** embodies the principle that authority is exercised through public declaration. The king's will is made effective when it is officially proclaimed, a concept that parallels the way God's own commands are delivered.
* **The Call to All Peoples:** The **herald**'s message is directed to "people, nations, and languages" [[Daniel 3:4]]. This specific phrase is used repeatedly in Daniel to signify a universal audience, setting a stage for proclamations that concern all of humanity, such as those made by Nebuchadnezzar and Darius regarding the true God ([[Daniel 4:1]], [[Daniel 6:25]]).
* **A Test of Allegiance:** The proclamation issued by the **herald** serves as a direct test of faith. The command to worship an idol forces a choice, highlighting the conflict between earthly authority and divine law, which Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego navigate by obeying God over the king's **herald** [[Daniel 3:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3744}}` **kârôwz**, though appearing only once, provides a clear picture of a **herald**. It defines the role of an official proclaimer who gives voice to a sovereign's command, ensuring it is heard with power by all peoples under that rule [[Daniel 3:4]]. Ultimately, the function of the **herald** in this passage serves as a narrative device that establishes a conflict between human decrees and divine faithfulness, illustrating a key theme in the book of Daniel.
TRV