### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çᵉgid**, represented by `{{H5457}}`, defines the act of worship, specifically through the physical posture of prostrating oneself in homage. It appears **12 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel. Its usage is central to the conflict between state-commanded idolatry and exclusive devotion to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5457}}` is predominantly used in the context of King Nebuchadnezzar's decree. The command was for all people to "fall down and **worship** the golden image" upon hearing the sound of music [[Daniel 3:5]]. This is contrasted with the steadfast refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who declared they would not "serve thy gods, nor **worship** the golden image" [[Daniel 3:18]]. The term is also used to describe Nebuchadnezzar's own reaction to Daniel's wisdom, where the king "fell upon his face, and **worshipped** Daniel" [[Daniel 2:46]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the context and meaning of worship:
* `{{H5308}}` **nᵉphal** (to fall, fall down): This word is almost always paired with `{{H5457}}`, emphasizing the physical act of submission inherent in this form of worship. The command is repeatedly to "fall down and **worship**" [[Daniel 3:10]].
* `{{H6399}}` **pᵉlach** (to serve or worship): Often used in parallel with `çᵉgid`, this term broadens the concept from a single act to a state of being. The three Hebrews refuse to "**serve** nor **worship** any god, except their own God" [[Daniel 3:28]].
* `{{H6755}}` **tselem** (an idolatrous figure; form, image): This is the object of the false worship commanded by Nebuchadnezzar. The conflict revolves around whether to **worship** the golden **image** [[Daniel 3:12]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God, god): This word distinguishes the object of true worship from false. The Hebrews would not **worship** the king's **gods** but would only give allegiance to "their own **God**" [[Daniel 3:28]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5457}}` is focused on the nature of true allegiance.
* **Exclusive Devotion:** The word's usage in Daniel 3 creates a stark choice between worshipping a man-made idol and worshipping the living God. The refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to **worship** the image establishes a powerful theme of exclusive devotion, even when facing death [[Daniel 3:18]].
* **Physical Submission:** Worship is not presented as a purely internal state but as an external act of prostration and homage. This is seen in the repeated command to "fall down and **worshippeth**" [[Daniel 3:6]] and in Nebuchadnezzar's own response to Daniel [[Daniel 2:46]].
* **Worship and Service:** The joint use of "serve" `{{H6399}}` and "**worship**" `{{H5457}}` demonstrates that true devotion is a combination of reverent acts and a life of continuous service to the chosen deity [[Daniel 3:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5457}}` is a specific and powerful term for worship that is defined by the physical act of prostration. Its concentrated use in the book of Daniel frames one of Scripture's most dramatic confrontations over idolatry and faith. It illustrates that worship is an unequivocal act of allegiance, demonstrating visually and verbally who or what holds ultimate authority in one's life.
TRV