### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʻillâh**, represented by `{{H5931}}`, refers to a **pretext** or **occasion**. The term, defined as a pretext that arises artificially, appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in scripture. Its usage is confined to a single, specific narrative in the book of Daniel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H5931}}` is used exclusively to describe the attempts of Daniel's adversaries to find a reason to accuse him. The presidents and princes under King Darius actively sought to find an **occasion** against Daniel regarding his management of the kingdom, but they were unable to find any basis for an accusation [[Daniel 6:4]]. Concluding that his secular conduct was flawless, his enemies determined that they would not find any **occasion** against him unless it was in connection with the law of his God [[Daniel 6:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside `{{H5931}}` to describe the search for a flaw in Daniel's character:
* `{{H7912}}` **shᵉkach** (to discover... find): This verb is central to the narrative, as Daniel's enemies sought to **find** `{{H7912}}` an occasion against him, but ultimately no fault, error, or hurt was **found** `{{H7912}}` in him [[Daniel 6:4]].
* `{{H7844}}` **shᵉchath** (corrupt, fault): This word is used in parallel with `{{H5931}}` to emphasize the integrity of Daniel. His accusers could find no occasion nor **fault** `{{H7844}}` in his conduct [[Daniel 6:4]].
* `{{H7960}}` **shâlûw** (a fault; error, thing amiss): This term further highlights Daniel's righteousness, stating that no **error** `{{H7960}}` or fault could be found in him by his political rivals [[Daniel 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5931}}` is centered on the theme of integrity and faithfulness under persecution.
* **Demonstrating Righteousness:** The search for an "occasion" `{{H5931}}` serves to prove Daniel's righteousness. The failure of his enemies to find any pretext or fault in his professional life underscores his complete integrity [[Daniel 6:4]].
* **Pretext for Persecution:** The term reveals the nature of the conspiracy against Daniel. His enemies were not seeking justice but a **pretext** `{{H5931}}`, an artificially created reason to remove him.
* **Faith as the Only Target:** The narrative culminates in the conclusion that the only "occasion" `{{H5931}}` that could be manufactured against Daniel had to involve his unwavering commitment to the law of his God, setting up a direct conflict between earthly and divine law [[Daniel 6:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5931}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning as a "pretext" is critical to understanding the plot against Daniel. Its usage demonstrates how an individual's blameless character can frustrate opponents, forcing them to fabricate a conflict where one does not naturally exist. The word illustrates that when no legitimate occasion for accusation can be found in a person's civic life, their enemies may resort to attacking their religious devotion.
TRV