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.
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.
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.
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.
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