### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nᵉvâlûw**, represented by `{{H5122}}`, refers to a **dunghill** or sink. It comes from a root that suggests something foul. This term appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, exclusively as a symbol of complete ruin and public disgrace.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5122}}` is consistently used within the context of severe royal decrees. In Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar threatens that the houses of his Chaldeans will be made a **dunghill** if they fail to interpret his dream [[Daniel 2:5]]. Later, after the deliverance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, he decrees the same fate for anyone who speaks against their God [[Daniel 3:29]]. Similarly, in Ezra, King Darius decrees that the house of anyone who alters his command regarding the temple will be made a **dunghill** [[Ezra 6:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the context of this severe punishment:
* `{{H1917}}` **haddâm** (piece): This word describes something stamped to pieces. It is used in direct parallel with `{{H5122}}` as part of the same sentence of judgment, where offenders shall be "cut in **pieces**, and their houses shall be made a dunghill" ([[Daniel 2:5]], [[Daniel 3:29]]).
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** (make): This verb, meaning to do or make, is used to enact the punishment. For example, the decree states "let his house **be made** a dunghill" [[Ezra 6:11]]. The word's broader usage includes actions of kings, such as when Nebuchadnezzar "**made** an image of gold" [[Daniel 3:1]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H5122}}` is significant in understanding authority and judgment in the narratives of Daniel and Ezra.
* **Symbol of Total Desolation:** To have one's house turned into a **dunghill** was a sentence of ultimate disgrace, wiping out not just the structure but also the family's name and honor.
* **Instrument of Royal Authority:** The threat is always issued by a powerful king—Nebuchadnezzar or Darius—to enforce absolute obedience to a decree. It represents the highest form of state-sanctioned punishment ([[Daniel 2:5]], [[Ezra 6:11]]).
* **Penalty for Defiance:** In every case, this punishment is the stated consequence for failure or disobedience, whether against a king's command or, in a unique turn, against the God of Israel [[Daniel 3:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5122}}` is more than just a place of refuse; it is a powerful biblical symbol of judgment. Used exclusively in royal threats, it communicates a sentence of complete and shameful destruction. Its appearance in both Daniel and Ezra highlights a shared understanding of this punishment as the ultimate consequence for defying the highest authority, be it a human king or the God he comes to recognize.
TRV