### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nᵉçak**, represented by `{{H5260}}`, corresponds to the Hebrew term for pouring out a libation and means to **offer**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular appearance captures a dramatic moment where a pagan king commands a sacrificial offering to be made to a man.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H5260}}` occurs in the book of Daniel. After Daniel successfully interprets his dream, King Nebuchadnezzar falls on his face in worship before Daniel. In this state of awe, the king "commanded that they should **offer** an oblation and sweet odours unto him" [[Daniel 2:46]]. This context places the act of offering not in a temple setting directed at God, but as an expression of profound homage from a monarch to a prophet.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words found in the same passage help clarify the nature of this commanded offering:
* `{{H5457}}` **çᵉgid** (to prostrate oneself (in homage); worship): This is the action Nebuchadnezzar performs immediately before commanding the offering. The king's worship of Daniel provides the direct context for his command to **offer** `{{H5260}}` sacrifices [[Daniel 2:46]].
* `{{H4504}}` **minchâh** (a sacrificial offering; oblation, meat offering): This is the specific "oblation" that was to be offered to Daniel. The term is also used for offerings made upon the altar of God [[Ezra 7:17]].
* `{{H5208}}` **nîychôwach** (pleasure; sweet odour (savour)): This describes the "sweet odours" that were to accompany the oblation for Daniel [[Daniel 2:46]]. This phrase is also used to describe acceptable sacrifices offered to the God of heaven [[Ezra 6:10]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5260}}` is found entirely within its unique context:
* **An Expression of Royal Veneration:** The command to **offer** `{{H5260}}` is the culmination of King Nebuchadnezzar's reaction. It follows his act of **worship** `{{H5457}}`, showing that the offering was intended as a supreme gesture of honor [[Daniel 2:46]].
* **Misdirected Worship:** The offering includes an **oblation** `{{H4504}}` and **sweet odours** `{{H5208}}`, elements typically reserved for deity. By commanding this for Daniel, the king applies the rites of divine worship to a human being.
* **A Point of Contrast:** This event stands in stark contrast to the refusal of Daniel's companions to **worship** `{{H5457}}` the golden image, stating they would only serve their own God [[Daniel 3:18]]. It highlights the difference between pagan reverence for power and the exclusive worship demanded by God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5260}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is defined by its solitary use. It denotes an **offering**, but more importantly, it captures a moment of misplaced veneration where King Nebuchadnezzar commands for Daniel the kind of sacrificial homage normally reserved for a god. The word illustrates how a formal act of worship can be used to show the immense impact of God's power, even when channeled through a human vessel.
TRV