The Hebrew word pathbag, represented by H6598, is a term of Persian origin for a dainty or portion (provision) of meat. It appears 9 times across 6 unique verses, with all occurrences found in the book of Daniel. The word specifically denotes a luxurious or special portion of food, often the rich fare provided by a king.
In the biblical narrative, H6598 is used exclusively in the context of the Babylonian king's provision for Daniel and his companions. The king appointed a "daily provision" of his meat H6598 and wine for the young men being trained in his court Daniel 1:5. The term becomes a focal point of conflict when Daniel resolves not to defile himself with this "portion of the king's meat" H6598 Daniel 1:8. The subsequent test proves that avoiding the king's rich food results in a healthier appearance than those who did eat it Daniel 1:15. The word is also used prophetically to signify betrayal by those in close fellowship, as "they that feed of the portion of his meat H6598 shall destroy him" Daniel 11:26.
Several related words expand upon the context of the king's provision and Daniel's choice:
- H398 ʼâkal (to eat): This primitive root describes the act of consumption and is central to the narrative, as Daniel and his friends refuse to eat the king's portion, while others who did were compared to them (Daniel 1:13, Daniel 1:15).
- H3196 yayin (wine): This word for wine is consistently paired with H6598, representing the full scope of the luxurious royal provisions that Daniel rejected to avoid defilement (Daniel 1:8, Daniel 1:16).
- H2235 zêrôaʻ (pulse): This term for vegetables is presented as the humble, God-honoring alternative to the king's rich meat. Melzar took away the portion of meat and gave them pulse instead Daniel 1:16.
- H1697 dâbâr (a word; by implication... provision): While often meaning "word" or "matter," this term is used for the king's command establishing a daily provision of the royal meat, highlighting the official nature of the allotment Daniel 1:5.
The theological weight of H6598 centers on themes of purity, faithfulness, and separation from worldly influence.
- Test of Faithfulness: The king's meat H6598 serves as the primary object in a test of faithfulness. Daniel's refusal to eat it demonstrates a commitment to God's ways over the assimilation offered by the king's court Daniel 1:8.
- Worldly Indulgence vs. Divine Provision: The narrative contrasts the king's meat H6598 with simple pulse H2235. This juxtaposition highlights a choice between reliance on worldly, potentially defiling sustenance and reliance on God's provision, which ultimately leads to a better outcome Daniel 1:15-16.
- Symbol of Betrayal: In a prophetic context, the word takes on a darker meaning. Those who "feed of the portion of his meat" H6598 are the very ones who bring about destruction, illustrating how intimacy with worldly power and provision can lead to treachery Daniel 11:26.
In summary, H6598 is more than just a reference to a specific food item. It is a potent symbol within the book of Daniel, representing the luxurious and potentially defiling provisions of a foreign king. The choice to accept or reject this portion of meat becomes a defining test of loyalty and purity, contrasting worldly indulgence with divine faithfulness. Ultimately, pathbag illustrates how a tangible object can carry immense theological weight concerning separation, trust, and the dangers of compromising one's convictions.
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