### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gizbâr**, represented by `{{H1489}}`, is a term of foreign derivation that means **treasurer**. It is a highly specific word, appearing just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, signifying its specialized administrative function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H1489}}` is found in a key historical moment of restoration for Israel. In [[Ezra 1:8]], a Persian official named Mithredath is identified as the **treasurer** under King Cyrus. His role is to bring forth the sacred articles from the house of the Lord and number them for Sheshbazzar, the prince of Judah. The context places the **gizbâr** as a financial or administrative officer within the Persian court, responsible for managing and transferring valuable assets as part of the king's decree.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which `{{H1489}}` appears:
* `{{H4990}}` **Mithrᵉdâth** (Mithredath, the name of two Persians): This is the proper name of the individual who holds the title of **treasurer** in [[Ezra 1:8]]. His Persian name underscores his position as an official in a foreign empire instrumental in Israel's affairs ([[Ezra 4:7]], [[Ezra 1:8]]).
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This word appears in the same verse, identifying Cyrus as the **king** who directs the treasurer. The term is used for both earthly rulers like David [[2 Samuel 7:18]] and for God as the ultimate **King** over all the earth [[Zechariah 14:9]].
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (an exalted one, i.e. a king or sheik; captain, chief, cloud, governor, prince, ruler, vapour): This title is given to Sheshbazzar, who receives the numbered items from the treasurer. It designates him as the **prince** of Judah [[Ezra 1:8]], contrasting his leadership role for Israel with the treasurer's administrative role for Persia.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1489}}` is an administrative term, its context provides significant insight.
* **Instrument of God's Providence:** The **treasurer**, a Persian official, becomes an agent in fulfilling God's plan to restore His people. His actions in returning sacred items demonstrate God's sovereignty over foreign kings and their governments to achieve His purposes [[Ezra 1:8]].
* **Stewardship and Accountability:** The act of numbering the items highlights a theme of careful stewardship. The role of the **treasurer** involves accountability for valuable goods, underscoring the importance of the temple articles being returned to Judah.
* **Hierarchy of Authority:** The verse presents a chain of command from the **king** `{{H4428}}` to the **treasurer** `{{H1489}}` to the **prince** `{{H5387}}`. This human structure operates under the unseen authority of the Lord, who is the true King over Israel [[Isaiah 44:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1489}}` **gizbâr** is a specific term for a **treasurer** whose sole biblical appearance is pivotal. It marks the moment of tangible restoration for Judah after exile, where a Persian official is tasked with returning the sacred temple treasures. Though a secular title, its role in the narrative of [[Ezra 1:8]] illustrates the themes of divine providence, meticulous stewardship, and the way God works through earthly political structures to accomplish His sovereign will.
TRV