### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉvâh**, represented by `{{H7739}}`, means to **resemble** or **make like**. This word, which corresponds to the Hebrew שָׁוָה, is used sparingly in scripture, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**. Its usage focuses on the powerful act of transforming something into a different state or likeness, often as a result of divine judgment or royal decree.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two occurrences of `{{H7739}}` are found in the book of Daniel, where it describes dramatic transformations. In one instance, King Nebuchadnezzar's heart "was **made** like the beasts" as a divine punishment until he acknowledged God's sovereignty [[Daniel 5:21]]. In another, the same king decrees that the houses of anyone who speaks against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego "shall be **made** a dunghill" [[Daniel 3:29]]. In both contexts, the word signifies a fundamental change in nature or status imposed by a higher power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the actions associated with `{{H7739}}`:
* `{{H2957}}` **ṭᵉrad** (to expel; drive): This action precedes the transformation in Nebuchadnezzar's judgment. He was first **driven** from men, after which his heart was made like the beasts [[Daniel 5:21]].
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm** (decree): The transformation of houses into a dunghill is the direct consequence of a royal **decree**, highlighting the legal and authoritative power behind the action of `{{H7739}}` [[Daniel 3:29]].
* `{{H6966}}` **qûwm** ({to rise...}; appoint, establish, make): This word is used in contrast to the humbling action of `{{H7739}}`. While a king's heart is made low, God retains the power to **appoint** whomever He wills to rule over the kingdom [[Daniel 5:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7739}}` is tied to the absolute authority of God.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word illustrates a method of divine punishment where a person is fundamentally altered to reflect a lower state. Nebuchadnezzar's heart being **made** like an animal's serves as a powerful lesson in humility, demonstrating that God can debase the proud [[Daniel 5:21]].
* **Punitive Transformation:** The decree to make a house a dunghill shows that irreverence toward God can result in utter ruin and desolation. This transformation from a home to a waste pile serves as a stark warning [[Daniel 3:29]].
* **God's Unrivaled Power:** The context of the decree in [[Daniel 3:29]] is made because "there is no other God that can deliver after this sort." The use of `{{H7739}}` underscores the unique power of God to save His followers and to utterly change the state of those who oppose Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7739}}` is a potent Aramaic verb that, while rare, carries significant weight. It is used exclusively in Daniel to describe a complete transformation enacted as a form of judgment. Whether changing a man's heart to resemble a beast's or a house into a dunghill, **shᵉvâh** demonstrates the profound and authoritative power of God to alter the very nature of things to fulfill His sovereign will.
TRV