Lexical Summary yath: The term is often translated as "gate" or "entrance" in English, though its specific usage can vary based on context. Original Word: יַת Strong's Exhaustive Concordance whom (Aramaic) corresponding to 'eth; a sign of the object of a verb: + whom. see HEBREW 'eth NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Origin(Aramaic) corresponding to eth Definition mark of the accusative. Topical Lexicon Meaning and Grammatical Role יַת functions as a direct–object marker in Biblical Aramaic, equivalent to the Hebrew אֵת. It singles out the object of the verb so that the reader’s attention is fixed on what is being acted upon. Though seemingly minor, the particle draws a verbal spotlight onto the image Nebuchadnezzar “set up,” underscoring the conflict between absolute loyalty to the Lord and the idolatrous claim of the Babylonian state. Old Testament Usage Daniel 3:12 is the single occurrence: “These men, O king, have paid no heed to you; they do not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.” (Berean Standard Bible) Here יַת precedes “the golden statue,” intensifying the accusation that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to worship precisely that specific image erected by the king. Association with Idolatry and Covenant Loyalty 1. The word’s placement ties it to one of Scripture’s clearest demonstrations of covenant fidelity during exile. Historical Background Nebuchadnezzar II’s ninety-foot image symbolized the absolute authority of the empire. Court officials from every province (Daniel 3:2-3) were summoned, making the refusal of three Judean administrators conspicuous, politically subversive, and punishable by death. The particle יַת underlines the very object that embodies this imperial hubris. Theological Significance • Sovereignty of God: The narrative surrounding יַת culminates in divine deliverance (Daniel 3:24-30), affirming that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of men (Daniel 4:17). Practical Ministry Application Pastors and teachers can use Daniel 3:12 and its highlighted object to: Christological and Eschatological Foreshadowing The three Hebrews’ steadfastness anticipates the unwavering obedience of Christ, who “humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8). Their deliverance prefigures His resurrection victory. Eschatologically, the refusal to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s image foreshadows the end-time saints who “will not worship the beast or his image” (Revelation 20:4), assuring the church that faithfulness will be vindicated. Related Terms and Concepts • Hebrew אֵת (direct-object marker) – frequent in Old Testament narratives emphasizing covenant actions. Forms and Transliterations יָתְהוֹן֙ יתהון yā·ṯə·hō·wn yatehOn yāṯəhōwnLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Daniel 3:12 HEB: דִּֽי־ מַנִּ֤יתָ יָתְהוֹן֙ עַל־ עֲבִידַת֙ KJV: certain Jews whom thou hast set over INT: whom have appointed whom over the administration 1 Occurrence |
    |