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.
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.
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.
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.
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