### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **shᵉpharphar**, represented by `{{H8238}}`, describes **the dawn**. Derived from the root שָׁפַר, its definition indicates a time "brilliant with aurora," and it is used idiomatically to mean **very early in the morning**. This highly specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H8238}}` occurs in the dramatic narrative of Daniel in the lions' den. In [[Daniel 6:19]], after a night of fasting and worry, King Darius acts at the first possible moment. The text states, "the king arose **very early** in the morning, and went in haste unto the den of lions." The use of **shᵉpharphar** here emphasizes the king's extreme urgency and anxiety, showing that he did not simply wake at his usual time but rushed out at the very break of dawn to discover Daniel's fate.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other Aramaic words appear in the same verse, working together with `{{H8238}}` to build a vivid scene of tension and immediacy:
* `{{H5053}}` **nôgahh** (morning): Used in conjunction with `{{H8238}}`, this word clarifies the time of day, appearing as "**morning**" in the phrase "very early in the morning" [[Daniel 6:19]].
* `{{H6966}}` **qûwm** (to rise): This word describes the king's physical action. He did not linger but **arose** `{{H6966}}` at the moment specified by **shᵉpharphar**, initiating his urgent journey [[Daniel 6:19]].
* `{{H927}}` **bᵉhal** (in haste, trouble): This term reveals the king's state of mind and the manner of his movement. He went "**in haste**" `{{H927}}`, a detail that reinforces the urgency established by the use of **shᵉpharphar** [[Daniel 6:19]]. In other contexts, this word also means to be troubled.
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the theological context of `{{H8238}}` is significant within its narrative.
* **Urgency of Deliverance:** The word's meaning of "very early" highlights the intensity of the king's desire to see if God has preserved Daniel. It underscores the human response to a divine test of faith [[Daniel 6:19]].
* **Dawn as Revelation:** The "brilliant" dawn described by `{{H8238}}` marks the end of a dark night of uncertainty. It serves as the backdrop for the moment of revelation, when Daniel's miraculous survival is confirmed.
* **Royal Haste:** The king's action at this specific time, "very early," combined with his haste `{{H927}}`, demonstrates the powerful impact Daniel's faith had on a pagan ruler, compelling him to act with immediate concern.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8238}}` **shᵉpharphar** is a precise and evocative term. Though it has only one biblical occurrence, its placement in [[Daniel 6:19]] is pivotal. It does more than simply mark a time; it communicates the king's profound emotional state, adding a sense of urgency and hope to the narrative. The word's context shows how a singular, specific detail can enrich our understanding of a key moment of faith and divine deliverance.
TRV