The Aramaic word shâlûw, represented by H7960, denotes a fault or error. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its root, it conveys the idea of a fault, and is used idiomatically to mean a "thing amiss" or to "fail".
In the biblical narrative, H7960 is used to describe different kinds of failures. In the context of personal character, Daniel's adversaries could find no error or fault in him because he was faithful Daniel 6:4. It is also used in royal commands. A decree demands that provisions for burnt offerings be supplied "without fail" Ezra 6:9, while another warns officials not to fail in their duty to halt construction, lest it result in damage to the kings Ezra 4:22. Finally, it is used to define blasphemy, where speaking any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego carries a severe penalty Daniel 3:29.
Several related Aramaic words expand upon the concept of fault and faithfulness:
- H7955 shâlâh (a wrong; thing amiss): From a corresponding root, this word is used with H7960 to describe speaking a thing amiss against God Daniel 3:29.
- H7844 shᵉchath (corrupt, fault): This term is paired directly with error H7960 to emphasize that Daniel's accusers could find no fault in him at all Daniel 6:4.
- H540 ʼăman (believe, faithful, sure): Presented as the antithesis to error, Daniel's lack of any H7960 is explained by the fact that he was faithful H540.
The conceptual weight of H7960 is tied to ideas of integrity, obedience, and consequence.
- Personal Integrity: The absence of error H7960 is the ultimate measure of Daniel's character. His faithfulness to God rendered him blameless, and no error or fault could be found in him by his enemies Daniel 6:4.
- Royal and Divine Mandate: The term underscores the non-negotiable nature of a command. Whether providing for temple sacrifices "without fail" Ezra 6:9 or forbidding a thing amiss from being spoken against God Daniel 3:29, the word implies a strict standard where failure has serious repercussions.
- Political Consequence: A failure to act can lead directly to negative outcomes. In Ezra, the command not to fail is motivated by the desire to prevent damage H2257 and hurt H5142 from growing against the kings Ezra 4:22.
In summary, H7960 is not just a simple mistake but a significant Aramaic term for a fault with serious implications. It defines the blamelessness of the faithful, like Daniel, and sets the standard for absolute obedience to both royal and divine decrees. The word illustrates how an error, a failure in duty, or a thing amiss spoken can result in severe political or spiritual consequences, making its absence a mark of integrity and its presence a trigger for judgment.
TRV