The Aramaic word bᵉʼêsh, represented by H888, means to displease. It is an uncommon term, appearing only 1 time in the Bible. Its base meaning corresponds to the concept of smelling bad and is used figuratively to describe something that is morally offensive.
The sole use of H888 is found in the narrative of Daniel in the lions' den. When King Darius realized his own unchangeable decree meant that Daniel must be condemned, the scripture states the king was "sore displeased with himself" Daniel 6:14. This term captures his intense internal and moral conflict upon hearing the words that sealed Daniel's fate, highlighting his profound regret and distress over his own role in the situation.
Several related Aramaic words appear in the immediate context of its single usage:
- H7690 saggîyʼ (exceeding, great(-ly)... sore, very): This adverb modifies H888 in its only appearance, indicating that the king was "sore" or very displeased Daniel 6:14, emphasizing the depth of his emotional reaction.
- H7804 shᵉzab (deliver): This word appears in the same verse, showing the direct consequence of the king's displeasure: he "set his heart on Daniel to deliver him" Daniel 6:14.
- H5338 nᵉtsal (deliver, rescue): Also used in Daniel 6:14, this word reinforces the king's objective as he labored until sunset to rescue Daniel from the decree.
The narrative weight of H888 is concentrated in its ability to reveal character and motivation.
- Moral Offense: The term's connection to a bad smell underscores that the king's reaction was not just disappointment but a sense of moral revulsion at the situation he had created. He was displeased with himself.
- Human Limitation: The king's displeasure is a sign of his powerlessness. Despite being a great monarch, he is trapped by his own law, and his distress highlights the conflict between human authority and divine righteousness Daniel 6:14.
- Motivation for Deliverance: This profound displeasure is the catalyst for the king's actions. It drives him to seek a way to deliver H7804 and rescue H5338 Daniel, setting a contrast between the king's futile, day-long effort and God's ultimate deliverance from the lions' den.
In summary, bᵉʼêsh H888 is a highly specific term that, in its single biblical use, captures a moment of intense moral distress. It defines King Darius's reaction not as simple sadness, but as a deep, self-directed displeasure that is offensive to his own conscience. This emotion drives the subsequent action of the narrative in Daniel 6:14, illustrating the conflict between human fallibility and the call to do what is right.
TRV