The Aramaic word dᵉbach, represented by H1684, is a verb that means to sacrifice (an animal); offer (sacrifice). It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its usage corresponds to the Hebrew verb זָבַח and signifies the direct action of presenting a sacrificial offering.
The single biblical appearance of H1684 is found in the decree of King Cyrus regarding the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. In this official declaration, the temple is described as "the place where they offered sacrifices" Ezra 6:3. The word is used to define the primary function and purpose of the House of God, linking the physical reconstruction of the building directly to the restoration of Israel's sacrificial worship practices.
One closely related word is directly derived from this verb:
- H1685 dᵉbach (a sacrifice; sacrifice): This Aramaic noun refers to the sacrifice itself. It appears alongside the verb in Ezra 6:3, where the distinction between the action and the object is made clear in the phrase "where they offered H1684 sacrifices H1685."
The theological significance of H1684 is concentrated in its singular, powerful context:
- Restoration of Worship: Its use in Cyrus's decree emphasizes that the goal of rebuilding the temple was to re-establish the central act of sacrifice, a cornerstone of covenant relationship with God Ezra 6:3.
- Sanctioned Sacrifice: The word appears within a royal decree, highlighting that the offering of sacrifices was an officially recognized and authorized activity for the "house of God at Jerusalem" Ezra 6:3. It defines the temple as the designated place for this sacred duty.
In summary, while extremely rare, H1684 is a precise and important term. It pinpoints the essential action that defined the purpose of the second temple. Its appearance in Ezra 6:3 is not merely descriptive but foundational, capturing the very reason for the temple's reconstruction: to be the place where sacrifices were once again offered to God.
TRV