### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dêk**, represented by `{{H1791}}`, functions as a demonstrative pronoun meaning **this** or **the same**. It appears 13 times across 11 unique verses, with all occurrences found in the book of Ezra. The term is used to point specifically to an object, person, or project of immediate importance within the context of official communications and historical records.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1791}}` consistently directs attention to the central subjects of contention and construction in post-exilic Jerusalem. It is repeatedly used to specify "this city" [[Ezra 4:15]] and "this house of God" [[Ezra 6:7]]. For example, opponents of the rebuilding effort write to the king, describing Jerusalem as "**this** rebellious city" which was previously destroyed for its sedition [[Ezra 4:15]]. Conversely, decrees from Persian kings use the term to authorize and protect the work, as when Darius commands that no one should alter or destroy "**this** house of God" [[Ezra 6:12]]. The word also identifies "the same" Sheshbazzar who laid the temple's foundation [[Ezra 5:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are used in direct connection with the subjects identified by `{{H1791}}`:
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This verb is frequently paired with `{{H1791}}` to describe the central action of the narrative. Opponents warn of the consequences if "**this** city be builded" [[Ezra 4:13]], and royal decrees grant permission "to build **this** house of God" [[Ezra 5:17]].
* `{{H2718}}` **chărab** (to demolish): This word provides the historical justification for the opposition's concerns, stating that for the cause of past rebellion, "**this** city was destroyed" [[Ezra 4:15]].
* `{{H2255}}` **chăbal** (to ruin; destroy, hurt): Used in King Darius's protective decree, this term establishes a divine warning against any who would attempt "to destroy **this** house of God" [[Ezra 6:12]].
* `{{H989}}` **bᵉṭêl** (to stop): A royal command uses this verb to halt the reconstruction efforts, ordering that "**this** city be not builded" until a new decree is issued [[Ezra 4:21]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H1791}}` is derived from what it specifies. It acts as a linguistic marker that grounds grand theological and political struggles in tangible locations and projects.
* **A Point of Conflict:** The word highlights the object of contention. Whether referring to "**this** city" or "**this** house," `{{H1791}}` pinpoints the physical center of the spiritual and political battle between the returning exiles and their adversaries ([[Ezra 4:15]], [[Ezra 6:7]]).
* **Legal and Historical Specificity:** Its use in official letters and decrees, such as the search for records concerning "**this** house of God" [[Ezra 5:17]] or the order for "**this** work" to proceed [[Ezra 5:8]], lends an air of legal precision and historical authenticity to the account.
* **Focus on Divine Restoration:** By repeatedly pointing to "**this** house of God," the term emphasizes that the rebuilding effort is not merely a human endeavor but a specific, divinely sanctioned project. Darius's decree invokes God to destroy any who would interfere with "**this** house" [[Ezra 6:12]].
### Summary
In summary, **dêk** `{{H1791}}` is a simple but crucial Aramaic pronoun. Its significance lies not in its definition but in its application within the book of Ezra. It serves to constantly anchor the narrative to the physical subjects at its heart: "this city" of Jerusalem and "this house" of God. Through its precise use in decrees, reports, and historical accounts, the word sharpens the focus on the specific sites of conflict, restoration, and royal authority.
TRV