### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉʼêl**, represented by `{{H7593}}`, is used for an authoritative **inquiry, request, or demand**. Appearing **6 times** across **6 unique verses**, its definition is {to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand}. The word is primarily used in the context of royal commands and official questioning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7593}}` is used exclusively in contexts of royal power and official proceedings. In the book of Daniel, it describes the impossible **demand** made by the king for his wise men to reveal a secret [[Daniel 2:27]]. The Chaldeans note that no king had ever **asked** such a thing [[Daniel 2:10]] and that what the king **requireth** is a rare thing only the gods could reveal [[Daniel 2:11]]. In contrast, the book of Ezra uses the word for formal inquiries. Elders are **asked** who authorized the rebuilding of the house of God [[Ezra 5:9]], and their names are **asked** for official certification [[Ezra 5:10]]. The term also describes the authority granted to Ezra, whom King Artaxerxes permits to **require** whatever is needed from the royal treasurers [[Ezra 7:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the context of authority and revelation surrounding `{{H7593}}`:
* `{{H2324}}` **chăvâʼ** (to show): This word is often paired with a demand. What the king **demanded** `{{H7593}}` could not be **shewn** `{{H2324}}` by his wise men, establishing a challenge that only divine power could meet [[Daniel 2:27]].
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm** (decree, command): This word provides the legal or royal basis for a request. An inquiry is **asked** `{{H7593}}` about who gave the **command** `{{H2942}}` to build the temple [[Ezra 5:9]], linking the question to a matter of official authorization.
* `{{H3046}}` **yᵉdaʻ** (to know, make known, certify): This term is connected to the purpose of an inquiry. For instance, names were **asked** `{{H7593}}` specifically to **certify** `{{H3046}}` them in a written record for the king [[Ezra 5:10]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H7593}}` carries significant theological weight, particularly in demonstrating the limits of human authority versus divine sovereignty.
* **Human vs. Divine Power:** In Daniel, a king's demand `{{H7593}}` is intentionally set as an impossible task to highlight the inadequacy of human wisdom. The Chaldeans admit that only "the gods" can fulfill what the king **requireth**, setting the stage for God to reveal His supreme power [[Daniel 2:11]].
* **Authority in Service of God's Will:** In Ezra, the word is used in inquiries regarding the rebuilding of God's house [[Ezra 5:9]]. It is also used when a king grants Ezra authority to **require** `{{H7593}}` whatever is needed for the law of the God of heaven, showing earthly power being directed to accomplish divine purposes [[Ezra 7:21]].
* **Demand as a Catalyst for Revelation:** The king's arrogant **demand** `{{H7593}}` in Daniel becomes the direct catalyst for a major prophetic revelation from God. The unanswerable question prompts a divine answer that reveals God's control over human history and kingdoms [[Daniel 2:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7593}}` **shᵉʼêl** is a specific term that goes beyond simple asking. It denotes a formal, authoritative inquiry or an absolute demand. Its use in Daniel and Ezra frames critical moments where the authority of earthly kings intersects with the sovereignty of God. Whether through an impossible demand that reveals God's power or an official inquiry about His work, the word highlights the relationship between human requests and divine will.
TRV