### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼattûwn**, represented by `{{H861}}`, is defined as a **furnace** or fire-place. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses**, with all of its occurrences located in a single, pivotal chapter of the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H861}}` is exclusively used in the third chapter of the book of Daniel. It refers to the fiery **furnace** constructed under the command of King Nebuchadnezzar as a method of execution. Those who refused to bow down and worship the king's golden image were threatened with being cast into this "burning fiery **furnace**" [[Daniel 3:6]]. In response to the defiance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, the king commanded that the **furnace** be heated seven times more than usual [[Daniel 3:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the environment and action surrounding the furnace:
* `{{H228}}` **ʼăzâʼ**: This verb, meaning **to kindle** or **heat**, is used when Nebuchadnezzar commands his men to **heat** the furnace with extreme intensity [[Daniel 3:19]]. The furnace is later described as "exceeding **hot**" because of this command [[Daniel 3:22]].
* `{{H5135}}` **nûwr**: Meaning **fire** or **fiery**, this word is almost always found alongside `{{H861}}` to form the intimidating phrase "burning **fiery** furnace" [[Daniel 3:20]]. It is the **fire** from which the three men are miraculously saved [[Daniel 3:26]].
* `{{H7412}}` **rᵉmâh**: Meaning **to throw** or **cast down**, this word describes the act of punishment. The decree stated that dissenters would be **cast** into the furnace [[Daniel 3:11]], and this action was carried out on the three faithful men [[Daniel 3:21]].
* `{{H7631}}` **sᵉbîyb**: This word for **flame** appears when the furnace is so hot that the **flame** of the fire killed the soldiers who were throwing Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego inside [[Daniel 3:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H861}}` is concentrated entirely within its narrative context:
* **A Symbol of Human Tyranny:** The **furnace** is an instrument of a king's rage, designed to enforce absolute obedience and idolatry through the fear of a horrific death [[Daniel 3:15]].
* **The Stage for Divine Deliverance:** It becomes the place where God's power is demonstrated in a profound way. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego express their faith that God can deliver them from the **furnace** [[Daniel 3:17]].
* **A Testament to God's Sovereignty:** The failure of the "burning fiery **furnace**" to harm the faithful demonstrates that God's authority is superior to any earthly king's power and even to the destructive laws of nature.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H861}}` is a highly specific term, but one that is central to one of the most memorable stories of faith and deliverance in scripture. The **furnace** functions as a powerful symbol, representing the ultimate test of faith in the face of mortal danger. Its story powerfully illustrates that what is intended as an instrument of destruction can become the very setting for a display of God's miraculous salvation.
TRV