The Aramaic word shᵉbash, represented by H7672, corresponds to the concept of being entangled or perplexed, leading to a state of being astonished. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the entirety of the biblical text. Its rarity emphasizes the particular type of confusion and shock it describes.
The single use of H7672 occurs in the book of Daniel during the feast of King Belshazzar. After the mysterious hand writes on the wall, the king's own reaction is described as being "greatly troubled" and his countenance "changed." Immediately following this, the text notes that "his lords were astonied" Daniel 5:9. This specific placement highlights that the astonishment of the court was a direct result of seeing the profound and fearful effect the event had on their king.
Several related Aramaic words found in the same passage help to clarify the context of this astonishment:
- H927 bᵉhal (to terrify, hasten; in haste, trouble): This word describes the internal state of King Belshazzar, who was "troubled" Daniel 5:9, as well as Daniel, whose thoughts "troubled" him Daniel 7:28. It often conveys a sense of urgent distress that precedes the astonishment of others.
- H8133 shᵉnâʼ (alter, change, (be) diverse): This describes the visible effect of the king's trouble, as his countenance "was changed" Daniel 5:9. This external alteration is the catalyst for the lords' reaction, showing how inner turmoil can manifest physically. The word is also used more broadly for God who "changeth the times and the seasons" Daniel 2:21.
- H7690 saggîyʼ (exceeding, great(-ly); many, much, sore, very): This adverb is used to intensify the king's reaction, stating he was "greatly" troubled Daniel 5:9. It is used elsewhere in Daniel to signify large quantities, such as "many great gifts" Daniel 2:48 or "much flesh" Daniel 7:5.
The theological significance of H7672 is tied directly to its singular context in Daniel 5:9.
- Human Response to Divine Power: The astonishment of the lords is a clear depiction of the human response to an inexplicable act of God. It signifies the point where human understanding and control collapse in the face of divine judgment.
- The Entanglement of the Powerful: The definition "to entangle" or "perplex" is fitting for the scene. Belshazzar's lords, figures of power and influence, are rendered mentally helpless and confused, their authority nullified by a power they cannot comprehend.
- Collective Confusion: The term is applied to a group—"his lords"—demonstrating how fear and perplexity in leadership can cascade throughout a court. While the king was personally troubled, his followers were collectively astonied, showing a shared state of disarray.
In summary, while H7672 is one of the rarest words in the Bible, its single appearance provides a powerful snapshot of human weakness before divine intervention. The term shᵉbash encapsulates a specific moment of collective, perplexing astonishment. Used to describe the reaction of Belshazzar's lords, it illustrates how a supernatural event can instantly entangle the minds of the powerful, leaving them in a state of utter confusion and shock.
TRV