### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chedvâh**, represented by `{{H2305}}`, is the corresponding term for **joy** or **rejoicing**. This particular word is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular use highlights a moment of profound and collective celebration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only appearance of `{{H2305}}` is found in the book of Ezra, capturing the culmination of the effort to rebuild the house of God after the exile. The verse reads, "And the children of Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the rest of the children of the captivity, kept the dedication of this house of God with **joy**" [[Ezra 6:16]]. This context firmly associates the word with the gladness that comes from spiritual and national restoration.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from its context help to define the nature of this **joy**:
* `{{H2597}}` **chănukkâʼ** (dedication): This word for consecration is the direct catalyst for the joy. It marks the formal setting apart of the house of God for its sacred purpose [[Ezra 6:16]].
* `{{H1005}}` **bayith** (house): This is the object of the celebration. While it can refer to any house, here it specifically means the **house** of God in Jerusalem, a central point of worship and identity for Israel [[Ezra 6:16]].
* `{{H1547}}` **gâlûwth** (captivity): This term describes the people celebrating as the "children of the **captivity**" [[Ezra 6:16]]. It provides the crucial backstory, showing their joy stems from a return from exile and the restoration of what was lost.
* `{{H3479}}` **Yisrâʼêl** (Israel): The inclusion of the "children of **Israel**" emphasizes that this was a foundational event for the entire nation, not just a small group [[Ezra 6:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2305}}` is tied directly to its unique context in redemptive history.
* **Joy in Restoration:** The feeling of **joy** is expressed by those who have returned from **captivity** `{{H1547}}`. It is a response to God fulfilling His promises by bringing His people back to their land and re-establishing His sacred dwelling, the **house** of God `{{H1005}}`.
* **Communal Worship:** The joy is not an individual experience but a corporate one, shared by the priests `{{H3549}}`, the Levites `{{H3879}}`, and all the returned exiles [[Ezra 6:16]]. It signifies a community unified in its gratitude and celebration.
* **Sacred Gladness:** This **joy** is directly linked to a holy event: the **dedication** `{{H2597}}` of a space for the worship of God. It defines a type of gladness that is spiritual in nature and centered on God's presence and work among His people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2305}}` is a term whose significance far outweighs its frequency. Its single mention pinpoints the emotional peak of Israel's restoration after the exile. **Chedvâh** represents more than simple happiness; it is the profound, shared **joy** of a people who, after a period of **captivity**, are able to once again dedicate a **house** to God, marking a new chapter in their covenant relationship with Him.
TRV