### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **bath**, represented by `{{H1325}}`, is a unit of measure for liquids. It is defined as "a bath or Hebrew measure (as a means of division) of liquids" and corresponds to its Hebrew counterpart. This specific term appears **2 times** within **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only scriptural context for `{{H1325}}` is a royal decree documented in the book of Ezra. King Artaxerxes commands his treasurers to supply Ezra with necessary provisions for the temple. The decree specifies exact amounts, including "an hundred **baths** of wine, and an hundred **baths** of oil" [[Ezra 7:22]]. This highlights the word's function as a standard unit for quantifying large volumes of valuable liquids intended for sacred purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the use and significance of the **bath** as a measure:
* `{{H2562}}` **chămar** (wine): This is the specific liquid being measured by the **bath** in the decree. The provision of one hundred **baths** of **wine** underscores its importance for temple rites and sustenance [[Ezra 7:22]].
* `{{H4887}}` **mᵉshach** (oil): This term denotes the other crucial liquid quantified by the **bath**. Like wine, a hundred **baths** of **oil** were commanded, indicating its essential role in the provisions being supplied [[Ezra 7:22]].
* `{{H3734}}` **kôr** (cor, measure): This is a unit for dry goods that appears in the same list as the **bath**. It is used to quantify "an hundred measures of wheat," demonstrating a system of distinct, standardized units for liquid and dry provisions in the decree [[Ezra 7:22]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1325}}` is primarily administrative and practical, rooted in its context of provisioning.
* **Royal Provision:** The use of a specific measure like the **bath** shows the magnitude of the king's support for the mission of Ezra and the restoration of worship in Jerusalem.
* **Administrative Precision:** The term highlights the detailed and bureaucratic nature of the Persian empire's decree. The order was not a vague promise but a specific list with exact quantities, ensuring its fulfillment.
* **Valuable Resources:** The items measured by the **bath**—wine and oil—were essential commodities for the temple's operations, including offerings and the support of the priests.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1325}}` is a precise Aramaic term for a liquid measure. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Ezra 7:22]] firmly places it within the context of royal administration and the large-scale provisioning of the temple. The word illustrates how standardized measurements were crucial for executing official commands and ensuring that the resources vital for worship were supplied in specific, generous quantities.
TRV