### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dibrâh**, represented by `{{H1700}}`, is a versatile term that broadly refers to a **reason, suit or style**. Found **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, its meaning shifts with context, encompassing concepts like a legal cause, a divine purpose, a person's condition, a specific arrangement, or a consideration for an action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H1700}}` is used to convey several distinct ideas. In Job, it refers to a personal or legal plea, as Job states he would "commit my **cause**" to God [[Job 5:8]]. In Psalms, it defines a unique classification or rank in the statement, "Thou art a priest for ever after the **order** of Melchizedek" [[Psalms 110:4]]. The Preacher in Ecclesiastes uses the word in multiple ways: to describe the **estate** or condition of mankind [[Ecclesiastes 3:18]], as the reason or **end** for which God arranges human experiences [[Ecclesiastes 7:14]], and as the proper **regard** for a sacred oath [[Ecclesiastes 8:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **dibrâh** appears:
* `{{H7650}}` **shâbaʻ** (to seven oneself, i.e. swear): This word is directly tied to the concept of establishing an "order" by a divine decree, as the LORD "hath **sworn**" to establish the Melchizedekian priesthood [[Psalms 110:4]].
* `{{H7760}}` **sûwm** (to put... appoint... commit): This term is used when an individual presents their "cause" to God. In Job, the resolution is to **commit** the matter to God for His judgment [[Job 5:8]].
* `{{H7621}}` **shᵉbûwʻâh** (something sworn, i.e. an oath): This highlights the binding nature of a promise that provides the "regard" or reason for obedience, as seen in the counsel to keep a king's commandment in light of the **oath** of God [[Ecclesiastes 8:2]].
* `{{H559}}` **ʼâmar** (to say): This word often precedes a declaration about the "estate" or condition of things, as when the Preacher **said** in his heart his conclusion concerning humanity's nature [[Ecclesiastes 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1700}}` is seen in how it frames divine and human affairs.
* **Divine Order:** The word establishes the legitimacy and uniqueness of the Melchizedekian priesthood. It is not an inherited position but one of a specific, divinely sworn "order" [[Psalms 110:4]].
* **Sovereign Purpose:** **Dibrâh** is used to express God's ultimate purpose, or "end," in orchestrating the events of life, ensuring that humanity must depend on Him [[Ecclesiastes 7:14]].
* **Foundation for Accountability:** The term provides the basis for an action. One submits their "cause" to God [[Job 5:8]], and one's actions are performed in "regard" of a holy oath [[Ecclesiastes 8:2]], connecting reason to righteous conduct.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1700}}` is a nuanced word that defines the underlying framework or reason for a situation. Whether describing a legal **cause**, the fundamental **estate** of humanity, or a divinely instituted **order**, **dibrâh** points to a specific arrangement, style, or purpose. It explains the "why" behind an action, a condition, or a holy appointment declared in Scripture.
TRV