### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **dâth**, represented by `{{H1882}}`, refers to **a royal edict or statute**; **decree**, or **law**. It appears **14 times** across **13 unique verses** in the books of Ezra and Daniel, where it is used to describe both human and divine commands.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H1882}}` often illustrates the power of official mandates. It can be a royal **decree** issued with severe consequences, such as the one that "went forth that the wise men should be slain" [[Daniel 2:13]] or the "hasty" `{{H2685}}` **decree** from the king that perplexed Daniel [[Daniel 2:15]]. The term is famously used to describe the unchangeable "law of the Medes and Persians" ([[Daniel 6:8]], [[Daniel 6:12]]). This concept of an unalterable **law** is used to trap Daniel, as his enemies conspire, knowing they can only find fault with him "concerning the **law** of his God" [[Daniel 6:5]]. The word also appears in contexts where royal and divine law are placed side-by-side, with penalties like **death** `{{H4193}}` or **banishment** `{{H8332}}` for anyone who does not follow "the **law** of thy God, and the **law** of the king" [[Ezra 7:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words clarify the concept of law and authority:
* `{{H633}}` **'ĕçâr** (decree): This word is defined as {an interdict; decree}. It is used in parallel with **dâth** when describing the royal **decree** that Daniel's enemies persuade King Darius to establish [[Daniel 6:8]].
* `{{H7010}}` **qᵉyâm** (statute): Meaning {an edict (as arising in law); decree, statute}, this term is used alongside **dâth** to emphasize the binding nature of the king's command, which "may be changed" `{{H8133}}` not [[Daniel 6:15]].
* `{{H1780}}` **dîyn** (judgement): This word for {judgement} describes the legal consequence for violating a **dâth**. When the **law** of God and the king are disobeyed, **judgment** is to be executed speedily [[Ezra 7:26]].
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm** (decree, command): This term, also meaning **decree** or **commandment**, is used by King Artaxerxes when he issues his own official order to the treasurers `{{H1490}}` to support Ezra's mission [[Ezra 7:21]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H1882}}` carries significant weight, particularly in the context of divine and earthly power.
* **Conflict of Laws:** A central theme is the clash between the **law** `{{H1882}}` of a human king and the **law** `{{H1882}}` of God. Daniel's refusal to obey the king's **decree** `{{H633}}` in favor of his devotion to God's **law** demonstrates a higher allegiance ([[Daniel 6:5]], [[Daniel 6:15]]).
* **Law as an Instrument of Persecution:** In prophecy, an opposing figure will "think to change times and **laws**" [[Daniel 7:25]] as part of a campaign to **wear out** `{{H1080}}` the **saints** `{{H6922}}` of the most High. This shows law being used for oppressive purposes.
* **Law as a Foundation for Justice:** King Artaxerxes empowers Ezra to appoint **magistrates** `{{H8200}}` and **judges** `{{H1782}}` to enforce the **laws** `{{H1882}}` of God, establishing justice and order for the people [[Ezra 7:25]]. This includes teaching the **law** to those who do not know it.
### Summary
In summary, **dâth** `{{H1882}}` is a crucial Aramaic term for understanding law and authority. It encompasses both royal decrees, which can be instruments of control and persecution, and the divine **law** of God, which serves as a foundation for justice and a standard of faithfulness. Its use in scripture highlights the profound tension that can arise between obeying earthly commands and remaining faithful to a higher, heavenly authority.
TRV