(Aramaic) corresponding to תָּמַהּ or perhaps to שָׁאָה through the idea of sweeping to ruin (compare תָּוָה); to amaze, i.e. (reflex. by implication) take alarm; be astonied.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **tᵉvahh**, represented by `{{H8429}}`, is used to describe being **astonied**, amazed, or taking alarm. This term appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, marking a singular, pivotal moment of shock in response to a supernatural event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H8429}}` is in [[Daniel 3:24]], where it describes the reaction of King Nebuchadnezzar `{{H5020}}`. After casting three Hebrew men into a fiery furnace, the king becomes **astonied** `{{H8429}}` and rises up in haste `{{H927}}`. His amazement prompts him to immediately question his counsellors `{{H1907}}`, asking, "Did not we cast `{{H7412}}` three `{{H8532}}` men `{{H1400}}` bound `{{H3729}}` into the midst `{{H1459}}` of the fire `{{H5135}}`?" This highlights his complete disbelief at what he is witnessing.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the surrounding text provide context for the king's astonishment:
* `{{H927}}` **bᵉhal**: Meaning **to terrify, hasten; in haste, trouble**, this word is directly linked to Nebuchadnezzar's reaction, showing that his astonishment was accompanied by a hurried, troubled alarm [[Daniel 3:24]].
* `{{H3729}}` **kᵉphath**: Meaning **to fetter; bind**, this word underscores the source of the king's shock. He specifically recalls that the men were thrown into the furnace **bound**, which contrasts sharply with the sight of them walking freely in the fire [[Daniel 3:24]].
* `{{H5135}}` **nûwr**: This word for **fire** sets the scene. The lethal environment of the **fiery** furnace was meant to execute the men, and their survival within it is the cause of the king's reaction. The fire later proves to have had no power over their bodies [[Daniel 3:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8429}}` is captured in this single, dramatic moment. It signifies the human response to an undeniable display of divine power.
* **Confronting Divine Intervention:** The king's astonishment is not mere surprise; it is the reaction of a powerful ruler whose authority is suddenly superseded by God's. He expected death but witnessed deliverance, forcing him to confront a power beyond his control [[Daniel 3:24]].
* **The Catalyst for Inquiry:** Being **astonied** moves Nebuchadnezzar from a position of issuing decrees to one of asking questions. This moment of shock is the turning point that leads him to investigate the miracle and ultimately acknowledge the God of the Hebrews [[Daniel 3:28]].
* **A King Humbled:** The term captures the instant a proud king is humbled. His alarm signals the beginning of a shift in his perspective, as the event challenges his worldview and the omnipotence he ascribed to himself.
### Summary
In summary, while extremely rare, `{{H8429}}` is a powerful word that defines a crucial moment in the biblical narrative. It marks the precise instant a pagan king is confronted with the incomprehensible power of God. This moment of being **astonied** serves as the pivotal event that leads Nebuchadnezzar to witness divine salvation and proclaim the greatness of a God who can deliver His servants from a fiery furnace.
TRV