### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **ʻĂbêd Nᵉgôw** `{{H5664}}`, or **Abednego**, is the Babylonian name given to one of Daniel's companions. It appears just **1 time** in the Bible, in a single verse that marks a pivotal moment of cultural assimilation for the captive Israelites in Babylon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of **Abednego** `{{H5664}}` is found in [[Daniel 1:7]]. In this verse, the **prince** `{{H8269}}` of the **eunuchs** `{{H5631}}` assigns new, Babylonian names to four young men from Judah. The passage states that Azariah `{{H5838}}` was given the name **Abednego** `{{H5664}}`, alongside Daniel `{{H1840}}` who was named Belteshazzar, Hananiah `{{H2608}}` who was named Shadrach `{{H7714}}`, and Mishael `{{H4332}}` who was named Meshach `{{H4335}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential to understanding the context of this name change:
* `{{H5838}}` **ʻĂzaryâh** (Azariah): This was the original Hebrew name of the individual renamed Abednego, meaning "Jah has helped" [[Daniel 1:7]]. He was one of the children of Judah selected for the king's service [[Daniel 1:6]].
* `{{H1840}}` **Dânîyêʼl** (Daniel): A companion to Azariah who was also renamed. As a central figure in the narrative, he is described as having "understanding in all visions and dreams" [[Daniel 1:17]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): This title identifies the authority figure, a "head person" or "ruler," who was responsible for renaming the young men [[Daniel 1:7]]. Daniel later made requests to this same **prince** [[Daniel 1:8]].
* `{{H5631}}` **çârîyç** (eunuch): A "chamberlain, eunuch, officer." The **prince** `{{H8269}}` held authority over the **eunuchs** and the young men in their charge [[Daniel 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H5664}}` is tied to the theme of identity and faithfulness in a foreign land.
* **Imposed Identity:** The assignment of the name **Abednego** was an act by a Babylonian **prince** `{{H8269}}` intended to replace the Hebrew identity of Azariah with a Babylonian one [[Daniel 1:7]].
* **Group Renaming:** This was not an isolated event; it was part of a systematic renaming of all four chosen youths from Judah: Daniel `{{H1840}}`, Hananiah `{{H2608}}`, Mishael `{{H4332}}`, and Azariah `{{H5838}}` [[Daniel 1:7]].
* **Theological Contrast:** The name change from Azariah `{{H5838}}`, meaning "Jah has helped," to the Babylonian name **Abednego** represents a direct attempt by the state to overwrite a God-centered identity with a pagan cultural one.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻĂbêd Nᵉgôw** `{{H5664}}` is more than just a foreign name. Its singular mention in scripture captures a moment of immense cultural and spiritual pressure. It marks the Babylonian effort to assimilate Azariah and his friends by erasing their Hebrew names, which were tied to their God, and imposing new ones. This act sets the stage for the subsequent trials where these men would have to prove that their true identity and allegiance remained with the God of Israel, not the empire they served.
TRV