### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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