### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rᵉgaz**, represented by `{{H7266}}`, denotes **violent anger; rage**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole usage captures a moment of intense, furious emotion from a monarch.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H7266}}` is found in the narrative of King Nebuchadnezzar. When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to worship his golden image, the king's response is described with this word. The scripture states that **Nebuchadnezzar** `{{H5020}}` in his **rage** `{{H7266}}` and fury `{{H2528}}` **commanded** `{{H560}}` them to be brought before him [[Daniel 3:13]]. This act sets the stage for the trial in the fiery furnace.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for this expression of royal anger:
* `{{H2528}}` **chĕmâʼ** (anger; fury): Used alongside **rᵉgaz** to intensify the description of Nebuchadnezzar's emotional state, translated as "fury" [[Daniel 3:13]]. It is also used to describe his state later in the chapter when he commands the furnace to be heated [[Daniel 3:19]].
* `{{H5020}}` **Nᵉbûwkadnetstsar** ({Nebukadnetstsar...king of Babylon}; Nebuchadnezzar): The specific individual whose **rage** is described. His actions are central to the context of the event [[Daniel 3:13]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king; king, royal): This word establishes the authority of the one feeling the **rage**. Nebuchadnezzar’s status as **king** is what gives his anger its life-threatening power [[Daniel 3:13]].
* `{{H560}}` **ʼămar** ({to say...}; command, declare, say, speak, tell): This action word is directly linked to the king's **rage**, as he **commanded** Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to be brought before him as a result of his anger [[Daniel 3:13]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, `{{H7266}}` is part of a significant theological narrative.
* **The Rage of Defied Authority:** The word highlights the intense and dangerous reaction of an earthly **king** `{{H4430}}` when his divine pretensions are challenged. Nebuchadnezzar's **rage** is a direct response to the refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to serve his gods [[Daniel 3:12-13]].
* **Human Fury vs. Divine Deliverance:** This **rage** `{{H7266}}` acts as a catalyst for a confrontation between the king's power and God's power. Nebuchadnezzar's fury leads him to heat a furnace [[Daniel 3:19]], but this very act sets the scene for God to deliver His servants, an event the king himself later acknowledges [[Daniel 3:28]].
* **A Precursor to Judgment:** The king's **rage** results in a command to bring the men before him [[Daniel 3:13]]. This action initiates a trial that ultimately reveals the integrity of the accused and the sovereignty of their God over the furious king.
### Summary
In summary, **rᵉgaz** `{{H7266}}` is a concise but potent Aramaic term for **violent anger**. Its sole biblical appearance in the book of Daniel is unforgettable, capturing the explosive **rage** of King Nebuchadnezzar. It serves as the emotional flashpoint that propels the narrative of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego toward their trial by fire, powerfully illustrating the conflict between the fury of an earthly ruler and unwavering faith in a sovereign God.
TRV