### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nûwr**, represented by `{{H5135}}`, is defined as **fire** or **fiery**. It comes from a root meaning to shine. According to usage statistics, it appears 17 times across 14 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5135}}` is used in two primary contexts. The most frequent use is in Daniel 3, where it repeatedly describes the "burning **fiery** furnace" `{{H861}}` constructed by King Nebuchadnezzar as a tool of execution [[Daniel 3:6]]. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are cast into the "midst of the **fire**" [[Daniel 3:25]], but God delivers them, proving the **fire** had no power over them [[Daniel 3:27]]. The second context is in Daniel 7, where **fire** is a descriptor of divine majesty. The throne of the Ancient of Days is a "**fiery** flame" and his wheels are "burning **fire**" [[Daniel 7:9]], and a "**fiery** stream" issues from His presence [[Daniel 7:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller picture of fire and heat:
* `{{H1815}}` **dᵉlaq** (to flame; burn): This word is used alongside `{{H5135}}` to describe the wheels of God's throne as "**burning** fire" [[Daniel 7:9]], emphasizing a state of active flaming.
* `{{H228}}` **ʼăzâʼ** (to kindle; heat, hot): This term relates to the intensity of the heat. Nebuchadnezzar commanded that they **heat** the furnace seven times more [[Daniel 3:19]], and it was made "exceeding **hot**" [[Daniel 3:22]].
* `{{H3345}}` **yᵉqad** (to burn; burning): Frequently paired with `{{H5135}}`, this word describes the state of the furnace as "**burning**" [[Daniel 3:20]], indicating it is actively consuming fuel.
* `{{H7631}}` **sᵉbîyb** (flame): This specifies the visible tongues of fire. The "**flame** of the fire" from the furnace was so intense it slew the men who threw Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in [[Daniel 3:22]].
* `{{H861}}` **ʼattûwn** (furnace): This is the physical structure that contains the fire. It is consistently mentioned as the "**furnace**" into which those who disobeyed the king were cast [[Daniel 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5135}}` is significant, contrasting human judgment with divine power.
* **Earthly Persecution:** The **fire** of Nebuchadnezzar's furnace represents the pinnacle of earthly, tyrannical power used to enforce idolatry and punish faithfulness to God [[Daniel 3:15]].
* **Divine Majesty and Judgment:** In Daniel's vision, **fire** is an element of God's holy presence. His throne is a "**fiery** flame" [[Daniel 7:9]] and a "**fiery** stream" proceeds from him, symbolizing his awesome power and role as judge [[Daniel 7:10]].
* **Miraculous Deliverance:** The story of the furnace demonstrates that God's authority supersedes any earthly threat. The three men walk unharmed in the "midst of the **fire**" [[Daniel 3:25]], showing that the very element of judgment becomes a stage for God's salvation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5135}}` as **fire** serves as a powerful symbol in the book of Daniel. It functions both as a literal, destructive force wielded by a human king and as a metaphorical element surrounding the throne of God. Through its usage, the narrative starkly contrasts the limits of human-inflicted punishment with the boundless, protective, and judicial power of God.
TRV