The Aramaic word tsᵉlâʼ, represented by H6739, means to pray. Its definition suggests a connection to the act of bowing. This term appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, highlighting specific instances of prayer in the Aramaic portions of Scripture.
The word's usage provides two distinct contexts for prayer. In Daniel's personal life, he prayed and gave thanks to his God three times a day, kneeling on his knees in his house with his windows open toward Jerusalem Daniel 6:10. This was a consistent, established practice for him. In a public and official capacity, the word is used in a decree that priests should offer sacrifices to the God of heaven and pray for the life of the king and his sons Ezra 6:10, linking prayer to the welfare of the state and its leadership.
Several related Aramaic words clarify the nature and context of prayer:
- H1289 bᵉrak (kneel): This word describes the physical posture Daniel assumed when he prayed, as he kneeled upon his knees. Its definition also includes blessing God as an act of adoration, connecting the physical act with the spiritual intention Daniel 6:10.
- H3029 yᵉdâʼ (praise; (give) thank(-s)): This term is used in parallel with prayer, showing that Daniel gave thanks as a component of his communication with God Daniel 6:10.
- H5208 nîychôwach (sweet odour (savour)): In Ezra, the command to pray is directly connected to the offering of sacrifices of sweet savours, positioning prayer as a part of acceptable worship to the God of heaven Ezra 6:10.
- H2417 chay (life): This word specifies the purpose of the intercessory prayer in Ezra, which was for the life of the king and his sons Ezra 6:10.
The theological significance of H6739 is demonstrated through its applications:
- Faithful Devotion: Daniel's prayer exemplifies steadfast personal devotion. He maintained his routine of praying three times a day despite knowing that a decree was signed forbidding it, demonstrating that his communication with God was non-negotiable Daniel 6:10.
- Intercession for Authority: The command in Ezra shows that prayer is an act of intercession for rulers. It is presented as a priestly duty that is beneficial for the kingdom Ezra 6:10.
- An Act of Worship: The term is closely associated with other acts of worship. It is coupled with giving thanks Daniel 6:10 and offering sacrifices Ezra 6:10, illustrating that prayer is a central element of reverent communication with God.
In summary, the Aramaic word H6739 provides a focused look at the act of prayer. While its usage is rare, it powerfully portrays prayer as both a disciplined, personal act of faith and a formal, intercessory duty. It is an act of worship characterized by humility, thanksgiving, and a direct appeal to God for matters ranging from personal devotion to the well-being of a nation.
TRV