### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rᵉgash**, represented by `{{H7284}}`, means to gather tumultuously or to assemble together. It is a specific and focused term, appearing only **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning carries a strong sense of a charged or agitated gathering, rather than a simple meeting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All occurrences of `{{H7284}}` are found in the sixth chapter of Daniel, where it describes the actions of officials conspiring against Daniel. First, the **presidents** and **princes** "assembled together" to approach King Darius with a deceptive decree [[Daniel 6:6]]. Later, these same "men assembled" to find Daniel violating this new law by praying to his God [[Daniel 6:11]]. Finally, they "assembled" once more before the king to demand that the unchangeable law be enforced against Daniel [[Daniel 6:15]]. In each case, the word signifies a conspiratorial and hostile gathering.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the events surrounding this tumultuous assembly:
* `{{H116}}` **ʼĕdayin** (then): This word, meaning "at that time" or "then," is used to mark the sequence of the plot against Daniel, appearing in all three verses where the conspirators **assemble** ([[Daniel 6:6]], 6:11, 6:15).
* `{{H1400}}` **gᵉbar** (a person): This word for "man" is used to describe the group that gathered to spy on Daniel and demand his punishment, highlighting the human element of the conspiracy ([[Daniel 6:11]], [[Daniel 6:15]]).
* `{{H5632}}` **çârêk** (president): This title refers to the high-ranking officials, or emirs, who were set over the kingdom. It is these **presidents** who, along with the princes, initiate the assembly against Daniel [[Daniel 6:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7284}}` is tied to its role in the conflict between human authority and divine faithfulness.
* **Conspiracy Against the Faithful:** The term is used exclusively to describe the actions of those plotting against Daniel. The assembly is a direct response to their inability to find any fault in him, "forasmuch as he was faithful" [[Daniel 6:4]].
* **Opposition to Godly Worship:** The men's tumultuous gathering is engineered to create a conflict between the law of the land and "the law of his God" [[Daniel 6:5]]. They assemble specifically to catch Daniel in an act of worship [[Daniel 6:11]].
* **Catalyst for Divine Intervention:** While the assembly itself is a malicious act, it sets the stage for God's deliverance of Daniel from the lion's den. The conspirators' gathering is the direct cause of the events that ultimately demonstrate God's power over the king's decree [[Daniel 6:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7284}}` is a highly specific term describing a hostile, tumultuous assembly. Its use is confined to the narrative of Daniel 6, where it consistently denotes the conspiratorial gatherings of Daniel's enemies. The word powerfully captures the agitated and unified opposition he faced, which in turn served as the catalyst for one of the Old Testament's most profound displays of divine deliverance and faithfulness.
TRV