### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rᵉmâh**, represented by `{{H7412}}`, means **to throw, set, or cast (down)**. Figuratively, it can also mean to **assess or impose**. It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily conveying an action of forceful placement or judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7412}}` is most frequently used in the book of Daniel to describe acts of royal punishment. King Nebuchadnezzar's decree states that anyone who refuses to worship his image will be **cast** into a fiery furnace ([[Daniel 3:6]], [[Daniel 3:11]], [[Daniel 3:15]]). This threat is carried out when Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are bound and **cast** into the flames ([[Daniel 3:20]], 3:21). Similarly, under King Darius, those who defy his decree are to be **cast** into the den of lions, a fate Daniel faces [[Daniel 6:16]] and which is later inflicted upon his accusers [[Daniel 6:24]]. The word is also used in a vision where thrones are **cast down** [[Daniel 7:9]] and in a legal context where a decree forbids anyone to **impose** taxes on the ministers of God's house [[Ezra 7:24]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the act of casting or imposing:
* `{{H3729}}` **kᵉphath** (bind): This action often precedes being cast down. Nebuchadnezzar commanded his mighty men to **bind** Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego before they were cast into the furnace [[Daniel 3:20]], and the king later confirms they were cast in **bound** [[Daniel 3:24]].
* `{{H5308}}` **nᵉphal** (to fall down): This is the required act of worship that, if refused, results in being cast `{{H7412}}` into the furnace. The decree commands people to **fall down** and worship the image ([[Daniel 3:6]], 3:15).
* `{{H5457}}` **çᵉgid** (worship): This word is used in conjunction with falling down. Failure to **worship** the image is the specific offense that leads to the punishment of being cast into the furnace ([[Daniel 3:6]], 3:15).
* `{{H858}}` **ʼâthâh** (to arrive; (be-) come, bring): People are often brought before being subjected to judgment. Daniel's accusers were **brought** before the king and then cast into the den [[Daniel 6:24]], and Daniel himself was **brought** to be cast in [[Daniel 6:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7412}}` is tied to themes of authority, faith, and judgment.
* **Royal Authority and Punishment:** The word is overwhelmingly used to express the absolute power of earthly kings to enforce their will. The act of "casting" someone into a furnace or lion's den is the ultimate penalty for disobedience to a royal decree ([[Daniel 3:6]], [[Daniel 6:7]]).
* **A Test of Faith:** The threat of being **cast** down serves as a critical test of faith for God's followers. The refusal of Daniel's companions to worship an idol, knowing they would be **cast** into the furnace, demonstrates their ultimate loyalty to God over man [[Daniel 3:15]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** While human kings "cast" people down, the word is also used to describe God's ultimate authority, as when thrones are **cast down** in a heavenly vision, signifying the overthrow of earthly powers [[Daniel 7:9]]. Furthermore, a royal decree uses the word to protect God's ministers, stating it is not lawful to **impose** tribute on them [[Ezra 7:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7412}}` is a powerful Aramaic word primarily denoting the act of being **cast** down. Its usage in Scripture, concentrated in Daniel and Ezra, highlights the conflict between earthly and divine authority. It functions as a term for severe punishment under pagan kings, a catalyst for tests of faith, and a metaphor for the exercise of ultimate judgment and sovereignty, whether it involves casting down people, thrones, or imposing taxes.
TRV