### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chinṭâʼ**, represented by `{{H2591}}`, is the term for **wheat**. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This word designates the essential grain as a key provision for the support of the temple and its personnel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2591}}` appears exclusively in the book of Ezra, within royal decrees supporting the restoration of the temple in Jerusalem. It is listed as a necessary supply for the priests to carry out the "burnt offerings of the God of heaven" [[Ezra 6:9]]. The decree of Artaxerxes further quantifies this provision, commanding the delivery of up to "an hundred measures of **wheat**" to ensure the temple is well-supplied [[Ezra 7:22]]. In both instances, it is presented as a fundamental commodity for sustaining sacred duties.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words consistently appear with **wheat**, forming a group of essential supplies for the temple:
* `{{H2562}}` **chămar** (wine): This term for **wine** is listed alongside **wheat** as a primary provision for the priests and the temple service ([[Ezra 6:9]], [[Ezra 7:22]]).
* `{{H4416}}` **mᵉlach** (salt): This word for **salt** is also specified in the list of provisions to be given to the priests in Jerusalem for the support of temple worship ([[Ezra 6:9]], [[Ezra 7:22]]).
* `{{H4887}}` **mᵉshach** (oil): This term for **oil** is included with **wheat** as part of the daily and large-scale provisions mandated for the house of God ([[Ezra 6:9]], [[Ezra 7:22]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2591}}` is tied to its role in facilitating proper worship and divine service.
* **Provision for Worship:** The specific mention of **wheat** in royal decrees underscores that the worship of God requires tangible, material support. It was a critical element for sustaining the priests who ministered at the temple [[Ezra 6:9]].
* **Royal Support for God's House:** The commands for **wheat** to be provided for the "God of heaven" demonstrate that foreign authority was used to ensure the priests had the necessary resources to conduct their sacred duties without fail [[Ezra 6:9]].
* **Consecrated Sustenance:** As a staple food, **wheat** represents a foundational element of life. Its allocation for the temple signifies that the basics of human sustenance are to be offered in service to God [[Ezra 7:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2591}}` is more than just an agricultural term; it is a word that signifies consecrated provision. Its limited but specific usage in Ezra highlights its importance as a key staple required for the functioning of the temple and the sustenance of the priesthood. The context shows that the practical, daily needs of worship, such as **wheat**, are a vital component of honoring God.
TRV