### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **שַׁדְרַךְ (Shadrak)**, represented by `{{H7714}}`, is the Babylonian name given to one of Daniel's companions. It is described as being of probable foreign origin. This name appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in the Bible, marking a specific event of cultural assimilation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7714}}` is in the book of Daniel, where the **prince** `{{H8269}}` of the **eunuchs** `{{H5631}}` assigns Babylonian **names** `{{H8034}}` to the young men of Judah who were taken into the king's service. In this context, the man originally named **Hananiah** `{{H2608}}` is given the name **Shadrach** `{{H7714}}`. This renaming occurred alongside his companions, with **Daniel** `{{H1840}}` being called **Belteshazzar** `{{H1095}}`, **Mishael** `{{H4332}}` called **Meshach** `{{H4335}}`, and **Azariah** `{{H5838}}` called **Abednego** `{{H5664}}` [[Daniel 1:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a deeper understanding of this event:
* `{{H2608}}` **Chănanyâh** (Hananiah): This was Shadrach's original Hebrew name, meaning "Jah has favored." He is identified as one of the children of Judah alongside Daniel [[Daniel 1:6]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (prince): This word, meaning "a head person... ruler, steward," identifies the official who gave the new names. He was the **prince** of the **eunuchs** `{{H5631}}` and held authority over the Hebrew youths [[Daniel 1:7]].
* `{{H7760}}` **sûwm** (to put, give): This verb describes the action of the prince who **gave** `{{H7760}}` them their new names. The definition includes "appoint, call (a name), change," emphasizing the authoritative nature of the act.
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (name): Meaning "an appellation... honor, authority, character," this term highlights that more than a simple label was being changed. The giving of a new name was an assertion of authority and an attempt to redefine their character [[Daniel 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of this event is significant, illustrated by the context of the name change.
* **Imposition of Authority:** The act of the Babylonian **prince** `{{H8269}}` renaming the Hebrews was a clear demonstration of foreign power. By **giving** `{{H7760}}` them names like **Shadrak**, the ruling power sought to erase their native identities and assimilate them into a new culture [[Daniel 1:7]].
* **Challenge to Identity:** The change from a Hebrew **name** `{{H8034}}` like **Hananiah** `{{H2608}}`, which honored God, to a foreign one like **Shadrak** `{{H7714}}` represented a direct challenge to their spiritual and national identity.
* **Context for Faithfulness:** This renaming sets the scene for the subsequent narrative. Though their names were changed, their allegiance was not. This is immediately shown when **Daniel** `{{H1840}}` requested of the **prince** `{{H8269}}` of the **eunuchs** `{{H5631}}` that he might not defile himself, showing his inner character remained unchanged [[Daniel 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, **Shadrak** `{{H7714}}` is more than just a foreign name. Its single appearance marks a pivotal moment of cultural and spiritual pressure on Daniel's companions. The act of receiving this name, given by a Babylonian **prince** `{{H8269}}`, encapsulates the conflict between worldly authority and divine identity. While the name was meant to redefine **Hananiah** `{{H2608}}`, his story demonstrates that true character and faithfulness are not determined by an external label.
TRV