The Aramaic word qᵉrats, represented by H7170, is used to accuse. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The term's definition carries a powerful figurative meaning: to "eat the morsels of" someone, or to chew him up through slander.
This word appears exclusively in the book of Daniel, where it is used in a specific phrase combined with H399 'ăkal, which means to eat or devour. This pairing emphasizes the destructive and consuming nature of the accusation. It is first seen when certain Chaldeans came forward to accused the Jews Daniel 3:8. The word appears again when the king commands that the men who had accused Daniel be brought and cast into the den of lions Daniel 6:24.
Several related Aramaic words from the book of Daniel provide additional context:
- H399 ʼăkal (accuse, devour, eat): This word is used literally to mean devour, as when a beast is commanded to devour much flesh Daniel 7:5, but it is paired with H7170 to create the idiom for slanderous accusation.
- H6903 qᵉbêl (because, forasmuch as, therefore): This particle often introduces the reason or cause for an action. For example, Daniel's enemies could find no fault in him, forasmuch as he was faithful Daniel 6:4. It is used to introduce the accusation in Daniel 3:8.
- H3606 kôl (all, any, every, the whole): This word denotes totality and is used frequently to describe the scope of kingdoms and divine decrees. For instance, God's eternal kingdom will consume all other kingdoms Daniel 2:44.
The use of H7170 highlights several key concepts within the narrative of Daniel:
- A Tool of Malicious Slander: The vivid imagery of "chewing someone up" illustrates that these accusations were not simple reports of wrongdoing but were intended to destroy their targets. The Chaldeans sought the destruction of the Jews through their words Daniel 3:8.
- Accusation and Consequence: The word appears in contexts that demonstrate a clear pattern of accusation and repercussion. Those who falsely accused Daniel ultimately suffered the very fate they had planned for him Daniel 6:24.
- Opposition to the Faithful: In both instances, H7170 is used by adversaries attempting to eliminate faithful servants of God. Accusation is the primary weapon wielded by those opposing Daniel and his companions.
In summary, H7170 qᵉrats is a highly specific and illustrative term for accusation. Though used only twice, its pairing with the verb "to eat" provides a powerful metaphor for the consuming and destructive nature of slander. Its appearances in Daniel frame accusation as a key trial faced by the faithful, while also underscoring the theme of divine justice where accusers ultimately face the consequences of their actions.
TRV