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.
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.
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.
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.
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