### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼarkubâh**, represented by `{{H755}}`, translates to **knee**. It is derived from an unused root that conveys the sense of bending the knee. This word is exceedingly rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, where it provides a vivid physical illustration of terror.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of `{{H755}}` is found in the dramatic account of King Belshazzar's feast. When the king sees a hand writing a message of judgment on the wall, his composure shatters. The text describes his extreme fear, stating that his **knees** smote one against another [[Daniel 5:6]]. This powerful imagery captures the complete physical and emotional collapse of a powerful monarch when confronted by a divine proclamation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in the same passage help construct the scene of the king's terror:
* `{{H2122}}` **zîyv** (brightness, countenance): This word describes the king's appearance. His **countenance** was changed, indicating a visible loss of cheerfulness and composure [[Daniel 5:6]]. Daniel himself experienced his **countenance** changing after receiving a troubling vision [[Daniel 7:28]].
* `{{H927}}` **bᵉhal** (to terrify, hasten; in haste, trouble): This verb captures the king's internal state. His thoughts **troubled** him, signifying a deep mental and emotional turmoil [[Daniel 5:6]]. The same term is used when Nebuchadnezzar rose up in **haste** after seeing the three men in the furnace [[Daniel 3:24]].
* `{{H8271}}` **shᵉrêʼ** (to free, separate; figuratively, to unravel, commence; by implication (of unloading beasts) to reside; begin, dissolve, loose): This word describes the physical effect of the king's fear, as the joints of his loins were **loosed** [[Daniel 5:6]], signifying a loss of bodily strength. In a different context, the word highlights Daniel's ability to **dissolve** doubts [[Daniel 5:12]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H755}}` is centered on the human reaction to divine judgment.
* **Physical Manifestation of Terror:** The striking of the **knees** is a visceral image of fear. It shows how an encounter with divine power can overwhelm not just the mind but the body, reducing a king `{{H4430}}` to a state of physical helplessness [[Daniel 5:6]].
* **The Humbling of Pride:** The physical reaction demonstrates the immediate humbling of an arrogant king. His knocking **knees** symbolize the collapse of his earthly authority in the face of a heavenly decree. His physical weakness is a direct result of his troubling **thoughts** `{{H7476}}`.
* **Reaction to Divine Judgment:** This is not random fear, but a specific response to God's message. The king's entire being reacts, from his changed **countenance** `{{H2122}}` to his weak **knees** `{{H755}}`, illustrating the physical consequences of standing under divine judgment [[Daniel 5:6]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼarkubâh** `{{H755}}` is more than a simple anatomical term in its single biblical appearance. It functions as a powerful symbol of abject terror and the collapse of human pride before divine authority. Its use in [[Daniel 5:6]] creates an unforgettable image of King Belshazzar's reaction, showing that true power can make even the strongest king's **knees** knock together in fear. The word perfectly captures a moment where earthly sovereignty is instantly nullified by a heavenly message.
TRV