### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **bᵉnâʼ**, represented by `{{H1124}}`, means **to build** or **make**. It appears 22 times in 19 verses, with its usage concentrated in the books of Ezra and Daniel. The term corresponds to the Hebrew word *bânâh* and primarily describes the physical construction of significant structures like cities and the House of God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1124}}` is central to the account of Israel's return from exile. Its most frequent application is to the rebuilding of the House of God in Jerusalem. This act is a point of major contention, with officials repeatedly asking, "Who hath commanded you to **build** this house?" ([[Ezra 5:3]], [[Ezra 5:9]]). The work is initiated by a royal decree from King Cyrus [[Ezra 5:13]] but faces opposition that temporarily halts the project, with a command that the city "be not **builded**" [[Ezra 4:21]]. The word is also used by King Nebuchadnezzar, who boasts of the "great Babylon, that I have **built** for the house of the kingdom" [[Daniel 4:30]], contrasting human pride with the divinely-mandated work in Jerusalem.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context to the act of building:
* `{{H1005}}` **bayith** (a house): This word is almost always the object of the verb **bᵉnâʼ** in Ezra. The entire conflict revolves around the command to **build** this **house** of God [[Ezra 5:13]].
* `{{H787}}` **ʼôsh** (a foundation): The act of building begins with laying the **foundations**. A decree from Cyrus commands that the **foundations** of the house be "strongly laid" [[Ezra 6:3]].
* `{{H3635}}` **kᵉlal** (to complete; finish): This word signifies the successful conclusion of a building project. The elders of the Jews not only **builded** but also **finished** the house of God [[Ezra 6:14]].
* `{{H989}}` **bᵉṭêl** (to stop; cease, hinder): This is the direct counteraction to building. Enemies of the Jews made the work to **cease** by force [[Ezra 4:23]], and a later decree ensures expenses are paid so that the builders are not **hindered** [[Ezra 6:8]].
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm** (decree, commandment): Building projects in this context are authorized or forbidden by a royal **decree**. King Cyrus **made a decree** to build the house of God [[Ezra 6:3]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1124}}` is tied directly to the theme of national and spiritual restoration.
* **Divine and Royal Authority:** The authority to **build** is a central theme. The work proceeds only through decrees from earthly kings like Cyrus and Darius, which are shown to be aligned with the "commandment of the God of Israel" [[Ezra 6:14]].
* **Restoration of Worship:** To **build** the house of God is to re-establish the center of Israel's worship after the exile. It is the place for offering sacrifices, and its construction is aided by God's prophets ([[Ezra 5:2]], [[Ezra 6:3]]).
* **Perseverance Amidst Opposition:** The narrative of building is one of struggle. The Jews are accused of **building** a "rebellious and the bad city" [[Ezra 4:12]], but they persevere through the opposition until the work prospers and is completed [[Ezra 6:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1124}}` is more than a term for construction. It is a keyword in the post-exilic story of Israel's return. It encapsulates the physical and spiritual struggle to rebuild a nation's identity, centered on the House of God in Jerusalem. The use of the word highlights the interplay between divine will, human action, and the authority of kings, serving as a focal point for the narrative of conflict, perseverance, and ultimate restoration.
TRV