(Aramaic) of Persian origin; meaning one skilled in law; a judge; counsellor.
Transliteration:dᵉthâbâr
Pronunciation:deth-aw-bawr'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term דְּתָבָר (dᵉthâbâr, `{{H1884}}`) is derived from Persian and signifies a high-ranking official with legal expertise. Its core meaning encompasses the roles of "one skilled in law," a "judge," or a "counsellor." The etymological root likely combines "dath" (law, decree, `{{H1881}}`) with a component denoting expertise or bearing. Thus, a dᵉthâbâr is fundamentally an expert in legal matters, responsible for interpreting, applying, and potentially enforcing the decrees and statutes of the governing authority. This implies not only knowledge but also a degree of administrative and judicial authority within the Persian imperial system. The term points to a specialized function within the legal and administrative apparatus, distinct from general governance, focusing specifically on the intricacies of the law.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term dᵉthâbâr occurs once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Aramaic section of the book of Ezra: [[Ezra 7:24]]. In this verse, King Artaxerxes issues a decree concerning the personnel of the temple in Jerusalem: "Also we make known to you that concerning any of the priests, Levites, singers, doorkeepers, Nethinim, or servants of this house of God, it shall not be lawful to impose tribute, custom, or toll on them." The verse continues, listing the officials who are forbidden from imposing these taxes, including "priests, Levites, singers, doorkeepers, Nethinim, or servants of this house of God." While the dᵉthâbâr is not explicitly listed as one of those *exempted*, the context implies that they are among the Persian officials who *would normally* be responsible for imposing such levies. Their inclusion in the broader administrative context of the decree underscores their function as legal and fiscal administrators within the Trans-Euphrates satrapy. The king's edict, therefore, directly limits the jurisdiction of the dᵉthâbâr and other officials over the dedicated temple personnel, highlighting their significant authority in matters of law and taxation. This demonstrates the practical application of their legal expertise and administrative power within the provincial structure of the Persian Empire.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the Aramaic term דָּת (dath, `{{H1881}}`), meaning "law" or "decree," which forms the basis of dᵉthâbâr. This connection underscores the dᵉthâbâr's intrinsic link to the legal framework. Other related concepts include:
* **Justice and Judgment:** As a "judge" or "counsellor," the dᵉthâbâr is associated with the administration of justice, a core theme throughout biblical literature. This connects to Hebrew terms like שָׁפַט (shaphat, `{{H8199}}`, to judge) and דִּין (din, `{{H1781}}`, to judge).
* **Administration and Governance:** The role of dᵉthâbâr is part of a broader network of officials responsible for the orderly functioning of the Persian Empire. This relates to concepts of wise governance and the establishment of order.
* **Scribes and Experts in Law:** Figures like Ezra himself, described as a "scribe skilled in the Law of Moses" ([[Ezra 7:6]]), share a conceptual affinity with the dᵉthâbâr in their expertise in legal matters, though Ezra's focus is on divine law.
### Theological Significance
The appearance of dᵉthâbâr in [[Ezra 7:24]] carries significant theological weight. It illustrates God's providential working through secular authorities, even pagan kings, to achieve His redemptive purposes. King Artaxerxes' decree, influenced by "the hand of the Lord his God upon him" ([[Ezra 7:6]]), serves to protect and provide for the temple and its servants. The exemption of temple personnel from the jurisdiction of officials like the dᵉthâbâr signifies God's special regard for His house and those consecrated to its service. It underscores the principle that divine service holds a unique status, often transcending typical human administrative structures. This act of exemption, mediated through the authority of the dᵉthâbâr and other officials, demonstrates God's sovereignty over earthly powers and His ability to orchestrate events, even within a foreign empire, to ensure the flourishing of His people and the integrity of their worship. It is a testament to divine provision and the sacred nature of the temple and its ministry, set apart from the common realm of taxation and civil jurisdiction.
### Summary
The Aramaic term dᵉthâbâr (`{{H1884}}`) denotes a high-ranking legal expert, a judge, or a counsellor, whose role is deeply rooted in the administration of law within the Persian imperial system. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Ezra 7:24]] places the dᵉthâbâr among the officials whose jurisdiction over the temple personnel is explicitly limited by royal decree, highlighting their authority in matters of taxation and law. Theologically, the presence and circumscription of the dᵉthâbâr's power in this context underscore God's sovereign hand in protecting His people and enabling the restoration of worship in Jerusalem, even through the actions of a gentile king. It exemplifies divine providence working through human governance to ensure the sanctity and provision for sacred service, demonstrating God's ultimate authority over all earthly powers.
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