### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zâman**, represented by `{{H2163}}`, is a primitive root meaning to **fix (a time)** or **appoint**. It appears only **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its specific and focused usage for designating scheduled events.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2163}}` is consistently used to establish specific, scheduled occasions for carrying out important community and religious duties. In the book of Ezra, it sets the **appointed times** for dealing with the sin of taking strange{H5237} wives{H802} in order to turn{H7725} away the fierce{H2740} wrath{H639} of God{H430} [[Ezra 10:14]]. In Nehemiah, the term designates the **times appointed** for bringing the wood{H6086} offering{H7133} to the house{H1004} of God{H430} [[Nehemiah 10:34]] and for providing the firstfruits{H1061} [[Nehemiah 13:31]], highlighting its role in organizing sacred observances.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of divinely scheduled activities:
* `{{H6256}}` **ʻêth** (time): This word for "time" or "season" is paired with `zâman` in every instance, forming the phrase "appointed{H2163} times{H6256}" ([[Ezra 10:14]], [[Nehemiah 10:34]], [[Nehemiah 13:31]]).
* `{{H7133}}` **qorbân** (offering): This refers to something brought near the altar. The "appointed times" in Nehemiah were set specifically for the wood **offering** to be brought into the house of God [[Nehemiah 10:34]].
* `{{H1061}}` **bikkûwr** (firstfruits): These are the first-fruits of the crop. Nehemiah established **appointed** times for bringing not only the wood offering but also for the **firstfruits** [[Nehemiah 13:31]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (ruler): The **rulers** of the congregation were to stand at the **appointed** times to oversee the judicial process of turning from sin [[Ezra 10:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2163}}` is tied to the restoration of Israel after the exile.
* **Covenantal Order:** The use of `zâman` reflects a deliberate effort to re-establish order and faithfulness to God's law. The scheduling of offerings "year{H8141} by year{H8141}" [[Nehemiah 10:34]] was part of restoring the rhythm of worship.
* **Corporate Repentance:** The "appointed times" in Ezra were a structured mechanism for the entire community to collectively address sin and restore its relationship with God, showing that repentance was a communal and organized act [[Ezra 10:14]].
* **Divine Providence in Time:** By fixing times for sacred duties like the wood offering and firstfruits, the community acknowledged God's sovereignty over their time and resources, dedicating specific moments to His service and remembrance [[Nehemiah 13:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2163}}` is a specific term that, while rare, carries significant meaning in the context of Israel's restoration. It moves beyond a general sense of time to signify a fixed, appointed moment for a crucial action. Its use in Ezra and Nehemiah shows how the practical act of scheduling was employed to implement spiritual renewal, organize corporate worship, and fulfill covenantal obligations in a deliberate and orderly fashion.
TRV