(Aramaic) probably corresponding to צָלַע in the sense of bowing; pray; pray.
Transliteration:tsᵉlâʼ
Pronunciation:tsel-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb `{{H6739}}` (tsᵉlâʼ) fundamentally signifies the act of "praying." Its root meaning is often associated with the concept of "bowing" or "halting," drawing a semantic link to the Hebrew `{{H6760}}` (tsālaʿ), which means "to limp" or "to halt." This connection suggests that the act of prayer, as understood by this term, often involved a physical posture of humility, prostration, or reverence before God. It implies a deliberate cessation of one's own activity to engage in supplication, petition, or communion with the divine. The semantic range is primarily focused on this spiritual act, encompassing expressions of dependence, devotion, and intercession.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic term, `{{H6739}}` appears exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament. Its occurrences are notably concentrated in the book of Daniel, with one significant appearance in Ezra.
1. **Daniel 6:10**: "Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime." Here, `{{H6739}}` describes Daniel's customary and unwavering practice of prayer. The context highlights his steadfast devotion to God despite a royal decree forbidding prayer to anyone but the king. The act of "kneeling" explicitly connects to the implied "bowing" aspect of the word, emphasizing humility and a posture of worship.
2. **Daniel 6:11**: "Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God." This verse reiterates Daniel's consistent prayer life, confirming that he was indeed engaged in the act of `{{H6739}}` (praying) when caught by his adversaries.
3. **Daniel 6:13**: "Then answered they and said before the king, That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day." Though the word for "petition" here is different, the accusers are referring to Daniel's act of `{{H6739}}` (praying) as a transgression against the king's decree.
4. **Ezra 6:10**: "That they may offer sacrifices of sweet savour unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons." In this context, `{{H6739}}` refers to the exiles' responsibility to pray for the Persian king and his sons. This demonstrates that prayer was not only a personal act of devotion but also a communal duty, extending to intercession for governing authorities, even those outside the covenant community.
Across these occurrences, `{{H6739}}` consistently denotes a sincere, deliberate act of communication with God, often accompanied by a posture of reverence. In Daniel, it underscores faithfulness and defiance against ungodly decrees; in Ezra, it highlights intercessory prayer for civic welfare.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary Hebrew equivalent for "to pray" is `{{H6419}}` (pālal), which carries a broad semantic range including intercession, mediation, and self-judgment. Other related Hebrew terms include `{{H7878}}` (shā'al), meaning "to ask" or "to inquire," and `{{H6279}}` (ʿātar), meaning "to entreat" or "to supplicate."
The suggested connection of `{{H6739}}` to `{{H6760}}` (tsālaʿ, "to limp" or "to halt") emphasizes a physical dimension often associated with prayer in the ancient Near East – the act of bowing, kneeling, or prostrating oneself in humility and submission before the divine. This physical posture underscores the reverence, dependence, and surrender inherent in true prayer. The concept of "halting" might also imply a deliberate pause from one's regular activities to focus entirely on God.
Theological concepts intertwined with `{{H6739}}` include devotion, faithfulness, intercession, supplication, humility, and trust in divine providence.
### Theological Significance
The occurrences of `{{H6739}}` offer profound theological insights into the nature and practice of prayer.
Firstly, Daniel's consistent use of `{{H6739}}` exemplifies prayer as an unyielding act of faith and obedience to God, even in the face of grave danger and human legislation. It portrays prayer not merely as a request for help, but as a testimony to God's sovereignty and a non-negotiable expression of a covenant relationship. Daniel's kneeling posture signifies deep humility and reverence, acknowledging God's ultimate authority above all earthly powers. His prayer is a declaration of allegiance to the King of kings, demonstrating that true spiritual loyalty transcends political expediency.
Secondly, Ezra's command to `{{H6739}}` for the king and his sons highlights the theological principle of intercessory prayer for civil authorities. This demonstrates that God's people are called to seek the welfare of the society in which they live, even when under foreign rule. Such prayer contributes to peace and stability, creating an environment conducive to the flourishing of God's people and the advancement of His purposes. It underscores the belief that God is sovereign over all nations and that human rulers are, in some sense, instruments in His hands.
In sum, `{{H6739}}` portrays prayer as a vital, often physically expressed, act of humility, dependence, and communication with the divine. It is a testament to unwavering faith in the face of adversity and a powerful means of intercession for both personal and communal well-being.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb `{{H6739}}` (tsᵉlâʼ) signifies "to pray," often carrying the connotation of bowing or prostration, linking it to a physical posture of humility and reverence. Its primary biblical occurrences are found in the books of Daniel and Ezra. In Daniel, `{{H6739}}` describes Daniel's unwavering devotion and steadfast practice of prayer, even when it meant defying a royal decree, thereby emphasizing faithfulness and trust in God's sovereignty. In Ezra, it denotes the communal responsibility to intercede for governing authorities, highlighting the broader scope of prayer beyond personal petition to include civic welfare. Theologically, `{{H6739}}` underscores prayer as a fundamental expression of faith, humility, and dependence on God, serving as both a personal act of worship and a communal duty of intercession.
TRV