זוּעַ

זוּעַ

to shake (with fear)

Definition

The Hebrew verb זוּעַ (zûwaʻ) means to shake, tremble, or quake, specifically from a state of fear, awe, or agitation. In its two biblical occurrences, it describes the intense, involuntary physical reaction of people or nations to the overwhelming power and authority of a sovereign ruler. In Daniel 5:19, it depicts the nations and languages trembling in fear before King Nebuchadnezzar. In Daniel 6:26, it describes all peoples, nations, and languages trembling before the living God of Daniel, whose kingdom is eternal. The shaking is not from a natural cause like an earthquake, but from an emotional and spiritual response to absolute dominion.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Book of Daniel, appearing only twice. In both instances, it describes the reaction of subject peoples to supreme, sovereign authority. The pattern is consistent: a collective body (nations, peoples) is the subject, and the cause of the trembling is the explicit display of power by a king or deity. It is used in royal decrees or narratives emphasizing absolute dominion (Daniel 5:19, 6:26).

Etymology

This is the Aramaic form of the Hebrew root זוע (H2111), which carries the same core meaning of shaking or trembling. As an Aramaic word used in the biblical text, it corresponds directly to its Hebrew cognate. The root concept is a physical agitation or quaking, often from fear or awe, and this meaning is consistent across both languages in the biblical context.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly portrays the proper human response to divine and supreme earthly sovereignty. In Daniel 6:26, it connects the fear of a mighty king to the appropriate awe before the living God, whose kingdom is unshakable and eternal. Understanding this term enriches reading by highlighting that true reverence for God is not a calm, intellectual assent, but can involve a profound, physical recognition of His absolute power and majesty in contrast to temporal human rule. In the ancient Near Eastern context, trembling before a king was a recognized sign of submission and a recognition of his life-and-death authority. The use of this term in the court tales of Daniel would immediately communicate to the original audience the total dominance of the ruler in question. The application of this same verb to the reaction toward God elevates Him above even the most powerful human monarchs, placing Him in a category of authority that demands ultimate reverence. חיל (chîyl, H2342) — A more common Hebrew verb for trembling or writhing, often from pain, fear, or labor pains; has a wider range of usage. רגז (râgaz, H7264) — Means to be agitated, quake, or rage; can be used for emotional anger as well as physical shaking. פחד (pâchad, H6342) — Focuses more on the feeling of dread or terror that causes trembling, whereas זוע emphasizes the physical shaking itself.

Word Details