### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çᵉgar**, represented by `{{H5463}}`, means **to shut up**. Corresponding to the Hebrew word סָגַר, it can also figuratively mean to surrender. It is a very specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, highlighting a singular, powerful act.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H5463}}` is found in the account of Daniel in the lions' den. When explaining his miraculous survival to the king, Daniel declares, "My God hath sent his angel, and hath **shut** the lions' mouths" [[Daniel 6:22]]. Here, the word is used in its most literal sense, describing the supernatural closure of the lions' mouths to prevent them from harming Daniel. This action is presented as a direct intervention from God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from the same verse help frame the context of this divine act:
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God): This is the ultimate source of the action. Daniel credits "My **God**" for the miracle of shutting the lions' mouths [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H4398}}` **malʼak** (angel): This word identifies the agent sent by God to perform the act. The verse specifies that God sent his **angel** to shut the mouths [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H744}}` **ʼaryêh** (lion): This word specifies the creatures whose mouths were shut. The purpose of the action was to neutralize the threat of the **lions** [[Daniel 6:22]].
* `{{H2255}}` **chăbal** (to ruin; destroy, hurt): This describes the potential consequence that was averted. The mouths were shut so that the lions would not **hurt** Daniel [[Daniel 6:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5463}}` is tied entirely to its singular context in Daniel's story.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The act of shutting the lions' mouths demonstrates God's absolute power over the natural world and His ability to intervene directly to protect His people [[Daniel 6:22]].
* **Vindication of Righteousness:** The miracle is explicitly linked to Daniel's integrity. He states the lions did not hurt him because "innocency was found in me" before God, and he had "done no hurt" before the king [[Daniel 6:22]].
* **Agency of Angels:** The use of the word highlights the role of angels as messengers and agents of God's will. God `{{H426}}` **sent** `{{H7972}}` his angel `{{H4398}}` to carry out the specific task of shutting `{{H5463}}` the mouths.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5463}}` is a word defined by its one powerful appearance in scripture. Meaning **to shut up**, its use in [[Daniel 6:22]] is not figurative but a literal description of a divine miracle. It serves as a cornerstone of this narrative, illustrating God's power to deliver the faithful by commanding the physical world and neutralizing imminent threats.
TRV