(Aramaic) corresponding to עָשַׁת; to purpose; think.
Transliteration:ʻăshith
Pronunciation:ash-eeth'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb `{{H6246}}` (ʻăshith) carries the core meaning of "to purpose" or "to think." Its definition explicitly notes its correspondence to the Hebrew word `{{H6245}}` (ʻāshath), which shares a similar semantic range, encompassing ideas of thinking, considering, or devising. This suggests that `{{H6246}}` refers to a deliberate mental process, moving beyond a mere fleeting thought to encompass an act of contemplation that leads to a settled intention, plan, or decision. It implies a considered judgment and the formation of a definite aim or goal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H6246}}` appears only once in the biblical text, specifically in the Aramaic portion of the book of Daniel:
* [[Daniel 6:3]]: "Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king *thought* to set him over the whole realm."
In this singular occurrence, `{{H6246}}` describes King Darius's mental process regarding Daniel. The king "thought" (עֲשִׁת) to appoint Daniel over the entire kingdom. The context reveals that this was not a casual idea but a deliberate and weighty decision, born from the king's observation of Daniel's "excellent spirit." This points to the king's careful consideration and firm intention to elevate Daniel, recognizing his superior qualities and administrative capabilities. The word here signifies a purposeful resolve, highlighting the gravity of the king's administrative choice.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to `{{H6246}}` is its Hebrew counterpart, `{{H6245}}` (ʻāshath), which also conveys the sense of "to think" or "to consider." This direct correspondence underscores the deliberate nature of the mental act.
Other related Hebrew and Aramaic terms that express concepts of thought, planning, and purpose include:
* `{{H2803}}` (ḥāshav): A widely used Hebrew verb meaning "to think, devise, reckon, plan." It covers a broad spectrum of mental activity, from simple thought to intricate design.
* `{{H4284}}` (maḥashāvāh): The noun form of `{{H2803}}`, meaning "thought, plan, purpose."
* `{{H3289}}` (yaʻats): "To advise, counsel, purpose." This verb often implies deliberation and the formation of a decided course of action.
* `{{H2161}}` (zāmam): "To devise, plot, purpose," often carrying a connotation of evil intent or malicious planning.
While these terms share semantic overlap, `{{H6246}}`'s unique Aramaic usage in [[Daniel 6:3]] specifically emphasizes a king's purposeful and considered decision, distinct from mere ideation.
### Theological Significance
Though `{{H6246}}` appears only once, its context in [[Daniel 6:3]] carries significant theological weight. It describes a human king's "purpose" or "thought" to elevate Daniel. This seemingly human decision, however, can be understood within the broader biblical framework of divine sovereignty. God often works through the intentions and actions of human leaders, even those who do not acknowledge Him, to accomplish His divine purposes.
The king's considered judgment of Daniel's excellence and his subsequent decision to promote him ultimately served God's plan. Daniel's elevated position led to the dramatic events of the lion's den, which in turn resulted in King Darius's decree acknowledging the God of Daniel ([[Daniel 6:26-27]]). Thus, the king's "purposing" was an instrumental step in highlighting God's power, Daniel's faithfulness, and the supremacy of the Lord. This instance implicitly reflects the truth found in [[Proverbs 21:1]]: "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will." Even the deliberate thoughts and purposes of earthly rulers are subject to the ultimate will of the Almighty.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb `{{H6246}}` (ʻăshith) signifies a deliberate act of "purposing" or "thinking," implying a considered judgment leading to a firm intention or decision. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Daniel 6:3]] illustrates King Darius's purposeful resolve to promote Daniel due to his exceptional qualities. This singular usage underscores the weighty nature of the king's deliberation. Theologically, this human act of purposive thought, while seemingly autonomous, operates within the divine economy, serving as a means by which God orchestrates events to reveal His power and accomplish His sovereign will, ultimately redounding to His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.
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