### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼĕlâhh**, represented by `{{H426}}`, is the corresponding term for God or a god. It appears 95 times across 78 unique verses, primarily in the books of Daniel and Ezra. It is used to refer to both the one true God of Israel and to the pagan deities of other nations.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H426}}` is central to the conflicts involving faith and idolatry. It is used to distinguish the living **God** of Israel from powerless idols. For example, when commanded to worship a golden image, Daniel's companions declared their **God** `{{H426}}` was able to deliver them, and they would not serve other **gods** `{{H426}}` [[Daniel 3:17-18]]. The term is also used by Gentile kings to acknowledge the supremacy of Israel's deity, as when Nebuchadnezzar calls him a "**God** of **gods**" [[Daniel 2:47]] and Darius decrees that all should fear the "**God** of Daniel" [[Daniel 6:26]]. Conversely, it describes the false **gods** of gold, silver, brass, iron, wood, and stone which cannot see, hear, or know [[Daniel 5:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the meaning of `{{H426}}`:
* `{{H8065}}` **shâmayin** (heaven): This word is frequently paired with `{{H426}}` to form the title "God of **heaven**," emphasizing His supreme authority and domain over all earthly matters ([[Daniel 2:44]], [[Ezra 5:12]]).
* `{{H6399}}` **pᵉlach** (to serve or worship): This verb describes the act of devotion, whether directed at the true **God** `{{H426}}` or false ones. Daniel's friends refused to **serve** any **god** except their own [[Daniel 3:28]].
* `{{H5457}}` **çᵉgid** (to prostrate oneself (in homage); worship): This term denotes the physical act of worship, which was demanded for the golden image but reserved by the faithful for their **God** `{{H426}}` alone [[Daniel 3:18]].
* `{{H1247}}` **bar** (a son, grandson, etc.): This word appears in a pivotal moment when a fourth figure seen in the fiery furnace is described as being "like the **Son** of God" [[Daniel 3:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H426}}` is demonstrated through its narrative function.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The term consistently points to God's ultimate power. He is the "living **God**" who is "stedfast for ever" and whose kingdom will not be destroyed [[Daniel 6:26]]. As the "**God** of heaven," He sets up an eternal kingdom that will consume all others [[Daniel 2:44]].
* **Exclusive Worship:** The use of `{{H426}}` for both the true God and false gods forces a choice. The central test of faith in Daniel is the refusal to serve or worship any other **god** [[Daniel 3:28]], establishing that devotion belongs to the God of Israel exclusively.
* **God of Deliverance:** The God of Daniel is defined by His ability to deliver His servants. His power is revealed when He sends an **angel** `{{H4398}}` to shut the lions' mouths [[Daniel 6:22]] and rescues his servants from the fiery furnace, proving there is no other **god** that can deliver in this way [[Daniel 3:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** is a critical Aramaic term that defines the nature of divinity in a world of competing loyalties. While it can refer to any god, its primary role in Scripture is to reveal the unique identity and power of the one true God. Through dramatic confrontations in Daniel and the royal decrees in Ezra, the word serves to elevate the "**God** of heaven" above all earthly kings and lifeless idols, proving His absolute sovereignty and His power to deliver those who serve Him alone.
TRV