(Aramaic) corresponding to שָׁמַע; {to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)}; hear, obey.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉmaʻ**, represented by `{{H8086}}`, means **to hear intelligently**. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses in the Bible. Its definition corresponds to its Hebrew counterpart, often carrying the implication of attention and obedience, and can also be used causatively to mean "to tell."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8086}}` is frequently used to link the act of hearing with a required response. In the book of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar's decree commands that all people who **hear** the sound of musical instruments must fall down and worship a golden image ([[Daniel 3:5]], 3:10). This command is followed, as the people **heard** the music and worshipped [[Daniel 3:7]]. The word also describes receiving information, as when King Darius **heard** the words concerning Daniel and became displeased [[Daniel 6:14]], or when Belshazzar **heard** of Daniel’s wisdom [[Daniel 5:14]]. In a prophetic context, it is used to mean "obey," stating that all dominions will serve and **obey** the Most High [[Daniel 7:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for hearing and responding:
* `{{H3046}}` **yᵉdaʻ** (to know): This word is used in parallel with `{{H8086}}` to describe the deficiencies of idols, which cannot see, **hear**, or **know** [[Daniel 5:23]]. It highlights that true hearing is connected to intelligent perception and recognition.
* `{{H6399}}` **pᵉlach** (to serve or worship): This term is directly paired with `{{H8086}}` in the prophecy that all dominions shall **serve** and obey the Most High [[Daniel 7:27]]. It shows that obedience is the natural extension of true service.
* `{{H7123}}` **qᵉrâʼ** (to call out to... read): This word is linked to `{{H8086}}` when Belshazzar states he has **heard** that Daniel can **read** the writing on the wall [[Daniel 5:16]], connecting the act of hearing a report with the ability to interpret a message.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8086}}` is demonstrated through its specific applications in the book of Daniel.
* **The Test of Worship:** The act of hearing is established as a test of allegiance. For the people of Babylon, to **hear** the king's music was to be presented with a choice to commit idolatry [[Daniel 3:15]].
* **The Impotence of Idols:** The word is used to contrast the living God with false gods. Belshazzar is condemned for praising gods of silver and gold which cannot **hear** [[Daniel 5:23]], underscoring the inability of idols to perceive or respond to their worshippers.
* **Prophetic Obedience:** In eschatological prophecy, `{{H8086}}` defines the proper response to divine authority. The future everlasting kingdom is one where all dominions will not only serve, but also **obey** [[Daniel 7:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8086}}` is a significant term that moves beyond simple auditory function. It encompasses the reception of a command, the understanding of a message, and the resultant act of obedience or disobedience. Through its usage, it draws a sharp distinction between the perceptive power of the true God and the lifelessness of idols, ultimately defining obedience as a core component of worship and service.
TRV