The Aramaic word ʻăshith, represented by H6246, corresponds to a term meaning to purpose; think. It is an exceedingly rare word, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text. Its meaning is tied to the concept of forming an intention or a plan.
The single appearance of H6246 is found in Daniel 6:3. In this verse, Daniel has distinguished himself and "was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him." As a direct result of Daniel's character and ability, the king thought to promote him. The use of H6246 here signifies the king's deliberate intention and purpose to set Daniel in a position of authority over the entire realm.
The context of this word is clarified by several other Aramaic terms in its immediate vicinity:
- H5330 nᵉtsach (to become chief; be preferred): This word explains why the king formed his plan. Daniel was preferred H5330, and this status is what prompted the king to think H6246 of promoting him Daniel 6:3.
- H6966 qûwm (appoint, establish, make, raise up self): This defines the specific action the king was purposing. He thought H6246 to set H6966 Daniel over the kingdom, showing that the "thinking" was tied to a tangible act of appointment Daniel 6:3.
- H3493 yattîyr (preeminent; excellent): Daniel possessed an excellent H3493 spirit, which was the direct cause of the king's consideration. This quality is the foundation for the king's purpose Daniel 6:3.
- H5632 çârêk (president): This term identifies the officials, like the presidents H5632, over whom Daniel was being preferred, establishing the political hierarchy in which the king's "thought" was a significant event Daniel 6:3.
The significance of H6246 is derived entirely from its singular context:
- Intention of Authority: The word is used to describe the purpose of a king, indicating that the thoughts and plans of a ruler carry immense weight and are the precursors to official action.
- Response to Character: The king's thought to elevate Daniel was not arbitrary but was a direct response to the "excellent spirit" he observed in him Daniel 6:3. This shows how human purpose can be shaped by the recognition of superior, and in this case divinely-given, character.
- A Catalyst for Conflict: It was the king's plan to promote Daniel that ultimately incited the jealousy of the other presidents and princes, leading them to conspire against Daniel. The "thought" itself was the catalyst for the events that followed.
In summary, H6246 is a specific term for a deliberate thought or purpose. Its sole use in scripture powerfully illustrates how the intention of a person in authority, formed in response to another's integrity, can set in motion significant political and spiritual events. Though found only once, its meaning is made clear by the narrative of Daniel's promotion and the ensuing conflict it caused.
TRV