The Aramaic word rᵉchêm, represented by H7359, is a term for pity or mercy. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, indicating its specific and focused application. It is the Aramaic corresponding word for the Hebrew term רַחַם.
The sole appearance of H7359 is in the book of Daniel. Here, Daniel and his companions are urged to desire mercies from the God of heaven concerning a secret that would determine their fate Daniel 2:18. The word is used in the context of a desperate plea for divine compassion and intervention to prevent them from perishing along with the other wise men of Babylon.
Several related words in its singular context illuminate its meaning:
- H1156 bᵉʻâʼ (to seek or ask): This word is directly linked to H7359 in the passage, as Daniel is told to desire mercies Daniel 2:18. It is also used when Daniel requested appointments from the king Daniel 2:49.
- H426 ʼĕlâhh (God): Mercy is sought specifically from the God of heaven Daniel 2:18. This same term is used by King Darius when he refers to Daniel's protector as "the living God" Daniel 6:26.
- H8065 shâmayin (heaven): This word specifies the origin of the mercy being sought, from the God of heaven Daniel 2:18. It is also used to describe the source of the eternal kingdom God will establish Daniel 2:44.
The theological weight of H7359, despite its single use, is significant within its context.
- Divine Source of Mercy: The word is exclusively linked to the "God of heaven," establishing that true mercy and pity originate from God himself Daniel 2:18.
- Mercy Through Petition: The call to "desire" H1156 mercies shows that compassion from God is something to be actively sought through prayer and request, especially in times of crisis.
- Mercy as Deliverance: In its scriptural context, receiving mercy is directly tied to physical preservation and divine revelation. The plea for mercy is made so that Daniel and his fellows "should not perish" Daniel 2:18.
In summary, H7359 provides a concise yet powerful Aramaic term for mercy. Its single appearance in the book of Daniel is pivotal, casting divine mercy as an attribute of the God of heaven that is actively sought by the faithful in moments of mortal danger. It demonstrates that God's compassion is the key to deliverance and the answer to desperate prayer.
TRV