### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **tsᵉdâʼ**, represented by `{{H6656}}`, carries a meaning connected to a "(sinister) design" or being "true." Its usage in scripture is extremely rare, appearing only **1 time** in a single verse. This singular appearance occurs at a pivotal moment of confrontation, giving the word significant weight within its context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H6656}}` is found in the book of Daniel. It is spoken by King Nebuchadnezzar `{{H5020}}` as he confronts Shadrach `{{H7715}}`, Meshach `{{H4336}}`, and Abednego `{{H5665}}` about their disobedience. The king asks, "Is it **true**, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?" [[Daniel 3:14]]. The word here functions as an accusation, questioning not just the fact of their defiance but the deliberate intent behind it.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding narrative highlight the core themes of authority and worship:
* `{{H5020}}` **Nᵉbûwkadnetstsar** (Nebuchadnezzar, the Babylonian): The king who commands worship and speaks the word `{{H6656}}`. He is the central human authority in the account [[Daniel 3:1]].
* `{{H6399}}` **pᵉlach** (to serve or worship): This word denotes the act of service and allegiance at the heart of the conflict. The men refuse to **serve** any god but their own [[Daniel 3:17]].
* `{{H5457}}` **çᵉgid** (to prostrate oneself (in homage)): This describes the physical act of **worship** demanded by the king. The refusal to perform this act is the basis of the charge against the men [[Daniel 3:12]].
* `{{H6755}}` **tselem** (form, image): This refers to the golden **image** that Nebuchadnezzar had set up `{{H6966}}`, which was the object of the mandated idolatry [[Daniel 3:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6656}}` is entirely derived from this single, dramatic scene.
* **The King's Accusation:** The question "Is it **true**?" is posed by a pagan king, framing faithfulness to God as an act of treason. It highlights the inevitable clash between divine law and the decrees of earthly rulers.
* **Truth and Intent:** By using a word that implies both "true" and "design," the text reveals Nebuchadnezzar's perspective. He sees the men's refusal to serve `{{H6399}}` his gods `{{H426}}` not as a matter of conscience, but as a calculated and sinister plan to undermine his authority.
* **A Declaration of Faith:** The question forces a public declaration of loyalty. It sets the stage for the three men to affirm their ultimate allegiance is not to the king of Babylon, but to the God `{{H426}}` they serve, who is able to deliver them [[Daniel 3:17]].
### Summary
In summary, **tsᵉdâʼ** `{{H6656}}` is a rare Aramaic term made powerful by its singular context. Its use in [[Daniel 3:14]] captures the precise moment of confrontation between King Nebuchadnezzar and the three faithful servants. The word encapsulates a challenge of both fact and intent, framing the central conflict between bowing to an earthly king's idol and standing firm in one's devotion to God.
TRV