The Aramaic word gᵉmar, represented by H1585, is used for the concept of being perfect. It appears just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its definition points to an end in the sense of completion or fulfillment, rather than failure.
The single use of H1585 is found in a royal decree. In a letter to Ezra, King Artaxerxes extends "perfect peace, and at such a time" Ezra 7:12. In this official correspondence, the word describes the quality of the peace being granted. It signifies a complete, whole, and officially sanctioned state of well-being for Ezra and his mission as a priest H3549 and scribe H5613 of God's law H1882.
Several related words from its sole context help frame its meaning:
- H783 ʼArtachshashtâʼ (Artaxerxes): The Persian king H4430 who issues the decree. His use of H1585 gives the term its legal and authoritative weight in the narrative Ezra 7:12.
- H5831 ʻEzrâʼ (Ezra): The recipient of the letter, described as a priest H3549 and scribe H5613 of God's law. The "perfect" peace is granted to him to ensure his work is completed Ezra 7:12.
- H1882 dâth (law): This is the central subject of the king's decree. The king's support for Ezra is in the context of the law H1882 of the God H426 of heaven H8065, which Ezra is tasked to teach and implement Ezra 7:25.
The theological significance of H1585 is derived entirely from its unique context:
- Sovereign Provision: The word is spoken by a pagan king, ʼArtachshashtâʼ H783, yet it demonstrates God's ability to use world leaders to accomplish His will. The provision of "perfect" peace shows a complete divine enablement for Ezra's mission Ezra 7:12.
- Completeness of Authority: The term underscores the absolute nature of the king's support. The peace granted is not partial but "perfect," ensuring Ezra has the full backing of the Persian empire to reestablish the law H1882 in Jerusalem.
- Fulfillment of Purpose: Used in the opening of the king's letter to ʻEzrâʼ H5831, the word sets a tone of completion. It implies that everything needed for the success of the mission will be provided, aligning with the idea of a project brought to its intended end.
In summary, while H1585 is an extremely rare word, its single appearance is significant. It is used to describe a complete or "perfect" peace within a royal decree, highlighting the absolute authority and provision granted by King Artaxerxes to Ezra. It illustrates how God can work through secular powers to provide for the fulfillment of His divine purposes for His people.
TRV