### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼal**, represented by `{{H409}}`, is a term of negation meaning **not**. It appears only 3 times in 3 unique verses, exclusively within the book of Daniel. It functions as a qualified negation used in a deprecative sense, expressing a wish against an action or state of being.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H409}}` is consistently used in direct commands or pleas to prevent a negative outcome. Daniel uses it to halt a royal decree when he tells Arioch, "Destroy **not** the wise men of Babylon" [[Daniel 2:24]]. It is also used to offer reassurance in moments of distress. King Nebuchadnezzar says to Daniel, "let **not** the dream, or the interpretation thereof, trouble thee" [[Daniel 4:19]]. Similarly, the queen tells King Belshazzar, "let **not** thy thoughts trouble thee" [[Daniel 5:10]], attempting to calm him.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are connected to the use of **ʼal**:
* `{{H7}}` **ʼăbad** (destroy, perish): This is the destructive action that `{{H409}}` is used to prevent. Daniel's command "Destroy **not**" directly intervenes to spare the lives of Babylon's wise men [[Daniel 2:24]].
* `{{H927}}` **bᵉhal** (to terrify, hasten; trouble): This word for being troubled or terrified is what royal figures use `{{H409}}` to negate. Both King Nebuchadnezzar and the queen use the phrase "let **not**... trouble thee" ([[Daniel 4:19]], [[Daniel 5:10]]).
* `{{H2445}}` **chakkîym** (wise): This term identifies the group who were the subject of the command "Destroy **not**." The use of `{{H409}}` was critical for their preservation [[Daniel 2:24]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H409}}` is tied to its specific, high-stakes contexts in the book of Daniel.
* **Halting Judgment:** The word is used by Daniel to stop an execution, creating a pivotal moment where divine revelation can be delivered instead of destruction. The command "Destroy **not**" allows God's plan to unfold through Daniel [[Daniel 2:24]].
* **Negating Fear:** The word is twice used by royalty in an attempt to suppress fear and anxiety caused by divine visions. A king and queen both urge against being troubled, highlighting the power of God's messages to disrupt even the most powerful rulers ([[Daniel 4:19]], [[Daniel 5:10]]).
* **Urgent Pleas:** As a deprecative, `{{H409}}` carries more weight than a simple negative. It functions as an urgent plea or a command expressing a strong wish, underscoring the gravity of the situations in which it is spoken.
### Summary
In summary, while **ʼal** `{{H409}}` is a rare word, its three appearances are impactful. It functions as a critical negation in the book of Daniel, used to halt destruction and to quell the fear that arises from supernatural encounters. Its use demonstrates how a simple word for "not" can be pivotal in moments of life-or-death commands and royal anxiety, shaping the narrative by preventing an action so that a divine message can be revealed.
TRV