### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nᵉqash**, represented by `{{H5368}}`, means to **knock** or **smote**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, highlighting a specific and dramatic physical reaction. This term is used to describe an involuntary action resulting from extreme fear.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H5368}}` is found in a moment of extreme terror. In [[Daniel 5:6]], King Belshazzar sees the mysterious handwriting on the wall, and his reaction is described with a cascade of physical effects: his countenance changed, his thoughts troubled him, the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees **smote** one against another. The word vividly portrays the physical manifestation of the king's fear and loss of composure in the face of a divine message.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Aramaic words in the immediate context of [[Daniel 5:6]] build the scene of terror surrounding the use of **nᵉqash**:
* `{{H927}}` **bᵉhal** (trouble): This word describes the king's thoughts, meaning to terrify or trouble [[Daniel 5:6]]. It establishes the internal cause for the external physical reaction.
* `{{H755}}` **ʼarkubâh** (knee): The direct object of the action, this word refers to the king's **knees** which knock together in fear [[Daniel 5:6]].
* `{{H8271}}` **shᵉrêʼ** (loose): Used to describe how the joints of the king's loins were **loosed**, this term signifies a release or dissolving of strength, contributing to the overall picture of physical collapse [[Daniel 5:6]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H5368}}` is concentrated in its single, dramatic appearance:
* **The Physicality of Divine Judgment:** The word powerfully illustrates that an encounter with divine truth and judgment can have a visceral, physical impact. King Belshazzar's body involuntarily reacts to the terror of the moment [[Daniel 5:6]].
* **Collapse of Earthly Authority:** The image of knocking knees symbolizes the utter frailty of human power when confronted by divine sovereignty. The king `{{H4430}}`, in all his majesty, is physically undone.
* **Involuntary Terror:** **Nᵉqash** depicts an uncontrollable physical response. The king's body betrays his fear, showing that his composure and strength have been completely shattered by the supernatural event.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5368}}` **nᵉqash** is a highly specific Aramaic term whose meaning is defined by its sole biblical use. It translates a moment of profound fear into a tangible, physical action: the knocking together of knees. Its appearance in [[Daniel 5:6]] serves as a potent depiction of how earthly power and pride crumble in the face of divine revelation and impending judgment.
TRV