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H2006 · Hebrew · Old Testament
הֵן
hen
Particle (conditional)
If / behold / lo — conditional particle

Definition

The Aramaic particle hen (הֵן) functions as "if\” or occasionally as a marker of attention ("behold"). It appears multiple times in the Aramaic sections of Daniel and Ezra. The most theologically charged use is in Daniel 3:17-18, where Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego declare their absolute trust in God — with or without deliverance.

Usage & Theological Significance

Daniel 3:17-18 contains one of the most remarkable expressions of faith in all Scripture: "If (hen) it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us... But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods.\” The double use of hen — "if He delivers" and "if He does not" — frames a faith that does not depend on outcome.

This is the "even if\” faith: trusting God not because of what He will do, but because of who He is. It stands in contrast to transactional faith that serves God only for benefit. The three men's statement is a theology of unconditional covenant loyalty — echoing Job 13:15, "Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him."

Key Bible Verses

Daniel 3:17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty's hand.
Daniel 3:18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.
Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face.
Habakkuk 3:17-18 Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines... yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Romans 8:38-39 For I am convinced that neither death nor life... will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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