בְּאֵשׁ

בְּאֵשׁ

Definition

The Hebrew word בְּאֵשׁ (bᵉʼêsh) is an Aramaic term meaning 'to be evil, bad, or displeasing.' It specifically conveys a sense of causing offense or being disagreeable, particularly in a relational or moral context. In its sole biblical occurrence in Daniel 6:14, it describes King Darius's intense displeasure with himself after being tricked into condemning Daniel to the lions' den, highlighting a profound inner distress over an unjust action. This term goes beyond simple annoyance to indicate a serious moral or emotional disturbance.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in the Aramaic portion of the book of Daniel. It is used in Daniel 6:14 to describe King Darius's state of mind after realizing he has been manipulated into issuing a decree that condemns Daniel. The context is one of royal regret and moral anguish, where the king is 'sore displeased' (KJV) or 'greatly distressed' (ESV) with himself, indicating the word's application in scenarios of deep personal and ethical discontent.

Etymology

בְּאֵשׁ is the Aramaic cognate of the Hebrew root בָּאַשׁ (H887), which means 'to have a bad smell, to stink' or figuratively 'to become odious or displeasing.' This etymological connection suggests a development from a literal sense of foulness to a metaphorical sense of being offensive or disagreeable. The Aramaic form used in Daniel directly corresponds to this figurative meaning, emphasizing something that is morally or relationally repugnant.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it captures the concept of moral displeasure, particularly in a figure of authority. King Darius's reaction in Daniel 6:14 reflects a conscience troubled by injustice, illustrating a theme of divine sovereignty working through human remorse. Understanding this Aramaic term enriches the reading of Daniel by highlighting the inner conflict and ethical weight of the king's decision, underscoring the narrative's focus on integrity versus corrupt power. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a king's displeasure was not merely a private emotion but a matter of state with potential consequences. Darius's distress in Daniel 6:14 would have been understood as a serious royal response, indicating a breach in justice or wisdom that could undermine his rule. This cultural backdrop amplifies the significance of his reaction, showing that his self-directed displeasure acknowledges a failure in his role as protector and judge. רַע (raʿ, H7451) — A broader Hebrew term for 'bad' or 'evil,' often used for moral wickedness or calamity, whereas בְּאֵשׁ focuses on causing displeasure. עָצַב (ʿāṣav, H6087) — Means 'to grieve, hurt, or pain,' often describing emotional sorrow, while בְּאֵשׁ implies causing offense or being disagreeable.

Word Details