The Aramaic word bᵉqar, represented by H1240, is a term used to inquire or make search. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in scripture. Its usage is concentrated in the book of Ezra, where it consistently refers to an official investigation, often at the command of a king, to verify historical records or assess a situation.
In its biblical context, H1240 is always associated with royal decrees and the examination of official records. For instance, King Darius orders a search to be made in the archives at Babylon to find the original decree from King Cyrus concerning the house of God Ezra 6:1. This follows an earlier request to let a search be made in the king's treasure house Ezra 5:17. Conversely, opponents of the rebuilding effort prompt a search of the historical records to prove the city has a rebellious past Ezra 4:15. This leads to a command where search is made, and the city's history of insurrection is confirmed Ezra 4:19. The term is also used when Ezra is commissioned by the king to enquire about Judah and Jerusalem in accordance with God's law Ezra 7:14.
Several related Aramaic words clarify the process and purpose of the search:
- H7761 sûwm (make, command): This verb often initiates the action. A king would make H7761 a decree that a search be conducted Ezra 6:1. Similarly, after receiving a letter of accusation, a king commanded H7761 that a search be made Ezra 4:19.
- H2942 ṭᵉʻêm (decree, command): This noun represents the official order that authorizes the search. A search H1240 is made because a king has issued a decree H2942 Ezra 6:1.
- H7912 shᵉkach (find): This is the direct result of a successful search. A search is made in the book of records so that one may find H7912 information and know the truth about a matter Ezra 4:15.
- H3046 yᵉdaʻ (know): This is the ultimate goal of the inquiry. The search is performed so that the king and his officials can know H3046 the facts recorded in historical documents Ezra 4:15.
The use of H1240 highlights several key administrative and historical concepts in the book of Ezra:
- Royal Authority: A search is not an arbitrary action but an official investigation sanctioned by the highest authority. Kings issue commands for a search to be made, demonstrating their power to investigate matters within their realm (Ezra 4:19, Ezra 6:1).
- Primacy of Written Records: The inquiries are directed at specific archives, such as the "house of the rolls" Ezra 6:1 or the "book of the records" Ezra 4:15. This shows the critical role of documented history and legal precedent in settling disputes and verifying claims during the post-exilic period.
- Inquiry for Legal and Religious Governance: The purpose of the search is to establish facts for governance. This can be to find a historical decree to permit the rebuilding of God's house Ezra 5:17 or for Ezra himself to enquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem based on the "law of thy God" Ezra 7:14, linking secular investigation to divine law.
In summary, H1240 bᵉqar is a precise Aramaic term for an official, authorized search. It is not a word for casual looking but for a formal investigation commanded by a king and carried out in state archives. Its occurrences in Ezra are pivotal, driving the narrative by either creating obstacles for the Israelites or, ultimately, providing the legal justification needed to rebuild the house of God in Jerusalem. The word underscores the importance of historical records and royal decrees in the administration of the Persian empire and the unfolding of God's purposes for His people.
TRV