The Aramaic word dᵉkar, represented by H1798, refers to a ram. This term, corresponding to the Hebrew word for a male, is used specifically for a male sheep. It appears 3 times in 3 unique verses, with all occurrences found in the book of Ezra.
In the biblical narrative, H1798 is used exclusively in the context of sacrificial offerings for the house of God in Jerusalem. At the temple's dedication, two hundred rams were offered alongside other animals Ezra 6:17. The word also appears in a royal decree ensuring the priests were supplied with provisions, including rams for burnt offerings Ezra 6:9. Furthermore, Ezra is commanded to use money to purchase rams and other animals to be offered on the altar Ezra 7:17.
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside H1798 in the context of temple worship:
- H8450 tôwr (bullock, ox): This word for a bull appears in all three verses where rams are mentioned, listed as another primary animal for sacrifice Ezra 6:17.
- H563 ʼimmar (lamb): This term for a lamb is also listed with rams in each instance, completing the trio of sheep and cattle used for offerings Ezra 7:17.
- H5928 ʻălâh (burnt offering): This word defines the purpose for which the rams and other provisions are supplied, identifying them as a holocaust offering to the God of heaven Ezra 6:9.
- H7127 qᵉrêb (to approach, come near, offer): This verb is used to describe the action of presenting the sacrifices, such as when the rams were offered at the dedication of God's house Ezra 6:17.
The significance of H1798 is tied directly to the restoration of worship in post-exilic Israel.
- Restoration of the Sacrificial System: The mention of rams is a key detail in the reinstatement of the prescribed offerings on the altar, signifying a return to covenantal worship Ezra 7:17.
- Dedication and Consecration: The offering of two hundred rams at the dedication of the second temple highlights the solemnity of the occasion and the importance of consecrating the holy space through sacrifice Ezra 6:17.
- Provision for Worship: The commands to provide and purchase rams for the priests underscore the communal and authoritative support required to sustain the liturgical life of the people of Israel Ezra 6:9.
In summary, H1798 is a specific term whose importance is derived entirely from its role in the sacrificial system. While its usage is limited to the book of Ezra, dᵉkar is central to the narrative of the rededication of the temple and the formal re-establishment of worship in Jerusalem. It consistently represents a required element for burnt offerings and dedication ceremonies.
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