### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic name **Zᵉrubbâbel**, represented by `{{H2217}}`, refers to the Israelite leader Zerubbabel. It is the Aramaic correspondent to the Hebrew name זְרֻבָּבֶל. This specific Aramaic form appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, highlighting a singular, pivotal moment of action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2217}}` is used to identify **Zᵉrubbâbel** as a primary agent in the reconstruction of the temple. The sole verse in which his name appears states, "Then rose up **Zerubbabel** the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem" [[Ezra 5:2]]. This account frames him as an initiator of this crucial work, acting in concert with the high priest Jeshua and with divine support, as the verse concludes, "and with them were the prophets of God helping them" [[Ezra 5:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from this passage illuminate the context of Zerubbabel's work:
* `{{H6966}}` **qûwm** (to rise): This verb signifies the start of Zerubbabel's effort, as he "rose up" to begin the work [[Ezra 5:2]]. The word also carries a sense of divine appointment, as God is the one who can "set up" kings [[Daniel 2:21]] and establish an eternal kingdom [[Daniel 2:44]].
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This defines the central task undertaken by **Zᵉrubbâbel**. His purpose was to **build** the house of God [[Ezra 5:2]]. The term is applied to other major construction efforts, such as the building of Babylon [[Daniel 4:30]] and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls [[Ezra 4:12]].
* `{{H5029}}` **nᵉbîyʼ** (a prophet): This word identifies the companions of Zerubbabel, highlighting the divine sanction for the project. The **prophets** of God were with him and Jeshua, "helping them" [[Ezra 5:2]]. These prophets are identified elsewhere as Haggai and Zechariah [[Ezra 6:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2217}}` is tied directly to the action described in its single appearance.
* **Leadership in Restoration:** **Zᵉrubbâbel** embodies the leadership required to restore worship and national identity for the returned exiles by initiating the rebuilding of God's house.
* **Divinely Aided Endeavor:** The work is not presented as merely human. The presence of God's **prophets** who were "helping" `{{H5583}}` frames the construction as a project under divine guidance and support [[Ezra 5:2]].
* **Active Obedience:** The act of **Zᵉrubbâbel** to "rise up" `{{H6966}}` and "build" `{{H1124}}` demonstrates a decisive and obedient response to the need to restore the central place of worship for the people of God.
### Summary
In summary, while the Aramaic form `{{H2217}}` is rare, its single use captures a defining moment. **Zᵉrubbâbel** is presented as the key leader who rose to the challenge of rebuilding the house of **God** in Jerusalem. His name is inextricably linked to this act of restoration, a project undertaken not in human strength alone, but with the active help of God's prophets.
TRV