לְחֶם

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Aramaic word lᵉchem, represented by H3900, is defined as a feast, though it can also refer to bread or grain. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single use of H3900 occurs in the book of Daniel, setting the stage for a pivotal moment of divine judgment. The verse describes a lavish event hosted by a Babylonian king: "Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine before the thousand" Daniel 5:1. Here, the word depicts a scene of royal extravagance and indulgence immediately preceding the famous writing on the wall.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of this feast is defined by several key Aramaic words:

• H1113 Bêlshaʼtstsar (Belshazzar, a Babylonian king): The host of the feast, whose prideful actions are central to the narrative Daniel 5:1.
• H4430 melek (a king): This title establishes the royal authority and setting of the event where the feast takes place Daniel 5:1.
• H7261 rabrᵉbân (lord, prince): Identifies the "magnates" who were guests, emphasizing the scale of the gathering Daniel 5:1.
• H2562 chămar (wine): The substance consumed at the feast, which fueled Belshazzar's decision to desecrate the holy vessels from the Jerusalem temple Daniel 5:2.
• H8355 shᵉthâh (to drink): The action performed at the feast with the sacred vessels, constituting an act of defiance against God Daniel 5:3.

Theological Significance

While the word H3900 itself is neutral, its biblical significance is profound due to its context. The feast is the backdrop for a critical theological lesson on pride and judgment.

• A Stage for Arrogance: The feast serves as the setting for King Belshazzar's hubris, where he lifts himself up against the Lord of heaven Daniel 5:23.
• Act of Desecration: It is during this feast that Belshazzar commands the sacred vessels from God's temple to be brought, using them to drink H8355 wine H2562 and praise idols of gold and silver Daniel 5:2-4.
• Precursor to Judgment: The event described by H3900 immediately precedes divine judgment. The revelry is interrupted by the writing on the wall, and King Belshazzar is slain that same night Daniel 5:30.

Summary

In summary, lᵉchem H3900 is a term whose biblical importance is entirely derived from its singular, dramatic context. While its definition is simply feast, its sole appearance in scripture places it at the center of a pivotal narrative about royal arrogance and divine retribution. The word marks the final celebration of a condemned king, illustrating how a scene of human indulgence can become the stage for God's ultimate sovereignty.