### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **binyân**, represented by `{{H1147}}`, is a term for a **building** or **an edifice**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the scriptures. Its base definition is (Aramaic) corresponding to בִּנְיָן; {an edifice}; building.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single occurrence of `{{H1147}}` is in [[Ezra 5:4]], where officials questioning the Jews who were rebuilding in Jerusalem ask, "What are the names of the men that make this **building**?". In this context, the word refers directly and concretely to the physical structure being erected. The question is part of an official inquiry into the authority and identity of those undertaking the construction of the house of God after the exile.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from the same context help clarify the meaning and significance of this term:
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): As the verb corresponding to the noun **binyân**, this word is central to the narrative. It describes the action of the builders who "began to **build** the house of God" [[Ezra 5:2]] and continued the work on what opponents called the "rebellious and the bad city" [[Ezra 4:12]].
* `{{H1400}}` **gᵉbar** (a person; certain, man): The focus of the question in [[Ezra 5:4]] is on the **men** who were constructing the building. This highlights the human agents responsible for carrying out the work.
* `{{H8036}}` **shum** (name): The inquiry is not only about the act of building, but about the **names** of the builders. This points to a deeper concern about identity, character, and the authority under which the men were operating, a theme echoed when the prophets spoke in the "name of the God of Israel" [[Ezra 5:1]].
### Theological Significance
While rare, the theological weight of `{{H1147}}` comes from its singular, important context.
* **Restoration of Worship:** The **building** is identified as the "house of the great God" [[Ezra 5:8]]. Its construction signifies the fulfillment of a divine commandment [[Ezra 6:14]] and the restoration of God's designated place of worship among His people.
* **A Symbol of Authority:** The construction project was a point of contention. The question about the **building** is directly linked to a challenge of authority: "Who hath commanded you to build this house...?" [[Ezra 5:3]]. The physical edifice, therefore, becomes a symbol of the Jews' right to exist and worship in the land as God's people.
* **Human Accountability:** The specific demand for the "names of the men that make this **building**" [[Ezra 5:4]] underscores the theme of human responsibility. Leaders like Zerubbabel and Jeshua were held accountable for their actions in undertaking this sacred project [[Ezra 5:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **binyân** `{{H1147}}` is far more than a simple architectural term. Though it appears only once, its context in [[Ezra 5:4]] places it at the heart of the post-exilic restoration. It refers to a physical **edifice** whose construction represents a pivotal moment of covenant faithfulness, divine authority, and the struggle to re-establish national and spiritual identity.
TRV