The Aramaic word nᵉbizbâh, represented by H5023, refers to a largess or reward. It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is derived from contexts where a substantial prize is offered for a significant service.
Both occurrences of H5023 are found in the book of Daniel, in exchanges between a prophet and a powerful king. In the first instance, King Nebuchadnezzar promises "gifts and rewards and great honour" to any wise man who can interpret his dream Daniel 2:6. Later, Daniel, before interpreting the writing on the wall for King Belshazzar, rejects the king's incentives, stating, "Let thy gifts be to thyself, and give thy rewards to another" Daniel 5:17. In both cases, the word signifies a prize offered by a monarch in exchange for supernatural insight.
Several related words appear alongside H5023, clarifying the nature of the offered compensation:
- H4978 mattᵉnâ' (gift): This word for a present appears directly with nᵉbizbâh in both verses. It is part of the package offered by Nebuchadnezzar Daniel 2:6 and rejected by Daniel Daniel 5:17.
- H3367 yᵉqâr (glory, honour): This term is promised by Nebuchadnezzar as the third component of his offered payment, alongside gifts and rewards Daniel 2:6. It represents the dignity and status that would accompany the material prizes.
The thematic weight of H5023 lies in its specific context within royal courts and its connection to divine knowledge.
- Royal Incentive: The word is used exclusively to describe rewards offered by earthly kings. It represents the highest form of material compensation and royal favor a monarch could bestow for a requested service Daniel 2:6.
- Value Distinction: Daniel's rejection of the king's rewards establishes a clear distinction between the motivations of the world and the purposes of God. It demonstrates that divine wisdom and prophetic insight are not commodities to be bought or sold Daniel 5:17.
- Source of True Honour: While the kings offer H5023 as a reward, the narrative contrasts this with H3367 (glory, honour), which is ultimately a gift from God. God is the one who gives kings their kingdom and glory in the first place (Daniel 2:37, Daniel 5:18).
In summary, H5023 is a specific term for a royal reward used only in the book of Daniel. While limited in use, it plays a key role in highlighting the tension between earthly power and divine authority. Its context illustrates that the gifts of God's servants are not motivated by the prizes offered by men, establishing a powerful theme regarding the integrity of prophetic ministry.
TRV