### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dayân**, represented by `{{H1782}}`, is the corresponding term for a **judge** or advocate. This specific word is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H1782}}` occurs in [[Ezra 7:25]], where Ezra is given a charge to establish a system of governance. He is instructed to act according to the **wisdom** `{{H2452}}` of his **God** `{{H426}}` and **set** `{{H4483}}` both magistrates and **judges** `{{H1782}}` over the people. The jurisdiction of these officials was for **all** `{{H3606}}` the **people** `{{H5972}}` living **beyond** `{{H5675}}` the **river** `{{H5103}}`. Their purpose was twofold: to **judge** `{{H1778}}` those who knew God's **laws** `{{H1882}}` and to **teach** `{{H3046}}` those who did not.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words help frame the context of judgment and legal authority:
* `{{H1778}}` **dîyn** (to judge): This verb is the direct action associated with the noun **dayân**. In [[Ezra 7:25]], it specifies the function these appointed **judges** are to perform.
* `{{H8200}}` **shᵉphaṭ** (magistrate): This term for a judicial officer is used in conjunction with **judges** `{{H1782}}` in the command to Ezra, outlining the establishment of a broader legal system [[Ezra 7:25]].
* `{{H1882}}` **dâth** (decree, law): This word provides the standard by which the **judges** were to operate. Their authority was rooted in administering the **laws** of God [[Ezra 7:25]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1782}}` is found in its role within the establishment of a divinely ordered society.
* **Application of Divine Wisdom:** The appointment of **judges** was not a mere political act but an exercise of God's **wisdom** `{{H2452}}` through human leadership, meant to bring order to the community [[Ezra 7:25]].
* **Justice and Instruction:** The role of the **judge** was intrinsically linked to knowledge of God's **laws** `{{H1882}}`. Their function was not only to adjudicate but also to ensure the law was known by teaching it to the uninformed.
* **Authority Under God:** The command demonstrates a principle of delegated authority, where human **judges** are appointed to administer the justice that ultimately originates from God and is based on His revealed statutes.
### Summary
In summary, while **dayân** `{{H1782}}` is used only once, its context is highly instructive. It refers specifically to a **judge** appointed as part of a system of civil and religious governance for the returned exiles. Its appearance in [[Ezra 7:25]] underscores the biblical ideal of a society where justice is administered by officials who operate under the wisdom and explicit laws of God.
TRV