### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dîyn**, represented by `{{H1778}}`, is a verb corresponding to the action **to judge**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning is primarily associated with legal judgment, though its usage is distinct in each occurrence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H1778}}` are in very different contexts. In [[Ezra 7:25]], the word is used in its legal sense, where Ezra is commanded to set up magistrates and judges who "may **judge**" the people according to the laws of God. However, in [[Deuteronomy 25:4]], the word is used to describe the action of an ox as it "**treadeth out**" the corn, highlighting a completely different application of the term.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the judicial context of `{{H1778}}`, particularly from its use in the book of Ezra:
* `{{H1782}}` **dayân**: This Aramaic noun means "a **judge** or advocate". It appears in the same verse as `{{H1778}}`, designating the specific role of those who carry out the judgment [[Ezra 7:25]].
* `{{H8200}}` **shᵉphaṭ**: Defined as a **magistrate**, this word is also used in [[Ezra 7:25]] to name one of the judicial offices being established.
* `{{H1934}}` **hâvâʼ**: Meaning "to exist" or "to be," this versatile verb is paired directly with `{{H1778}}` in [[Ezra 7:25]] to form the phrase "may **judge**."
* `{{H3046}}` **yᵉdaʻ**: This word for "to **know**" is crucial in the context of [[Ezra 7:25]], as the judges are to be selected from among those who **know** God's laws, and they are tasked to teach those who do not.
### Theological Significance
Despite its limited use, `{{H1778}}` carries notable thematic weight derived from its specific contexts.
* **Establishment of Justice:** The word's use in [[Ezra 7:25]] is foundational to the theme of re-establishing civic and religious order according to divine law. The command to appoint officials who can **judge** is a key part of this restoration.
* **Knowledge as a Prerequisite for Judgment:** The passage in Ezra explicitly links the act of judging with the necessity of knowing God's law, indicating that true justice is informed by divine wisdom [[Ezra 7:25]].
* **Principle of Labor:** In its appearance in [[Deuteronomy 25:4]], the term is applied to the physical labor of an animal, showing a scope that extends beyond the purely legal to the practical work of "treading out" grain.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1778}}` is an Aramaic verb with a focused but dual-aspected meaning in scripture. While its core sense relates to the act of judging within a legal system, as demonstrated in Ezra's commission, its usage in Deuteronomy shows a distinct application related to agricultural work. Though appearing only twice, its presence highlights the administration of justice and the value of labor.
TRV