### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chărab**, represented by `{{H2718}}`, means **to demolish; destroy**. It is an Aramaic root corresponding to the Hebrew word חָרַב. Appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, its usage is highly specific. The term's meaning is focused on the complete demolition of a city as a consequence of its actions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2718}}` appears exclusively in Ezra. Its sole use is found within a letter sent to a king to persuade him to halt the rebuilding of Jerusalem. The authors argue that a search of historical records would reveal Jerusalem's rebellious past. The letter states that it was "for which cause was this city **destroyed**" [[Ezra 4:15]]. Here, the word provides the historical justification for a past action and serves as a warning for the future.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from the same passage give context to why this destruction occurred:
* `{{H4779}}` **mârâd** (rebellious): This word describes the fundamental character of the city that was destroyed. The letter explicitly labels Jerusalem as a **rebellious** city [[Ezra 4:15]].
* `{{H5142}}` **nᵉzaq** (to suffer (causatively, inflict) loss; have (en-) damage, hurt(-ful)): This term defines the negative effect of the city's actions, calling it **hurtful** unto kings and provinces [[Ezra 4:15]]. It underscores the damage that led to the city's demolition.
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** ([idiom] cut, do, execute, go on, make, move, work): This verb specifies the action taken by the city's inhabitants. They "moved" or **made** sedition, which was the inciting incident for the destruction [[Ezra 4:15]].
* `{{H849}}` **ʼeshtaddûwr** (sedition): This noun names the specific transgression. The city was destroyed because it was a place where **sedition** had been made "of old time" [[Ezra 4:15]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H2718}}` is concentrated on the principle of cause and effect in a political sphere.
* **Destruction as a Political Consequence:** The use of `{{H2718}}` is framed as the direct outcome of political insurrection. The city was destroyed specifically because it was found to be **rebellious** `{{H4779}}`, **hurtful** `{{H5142}}`, and a center for **sedition** `{{H849}}` against ruling powers [[Ezra 4:15]].
* **Historical Precedent as Justification:** The word is employed as evidence in a formal argument. The past destruction of the city is presented as a fact from "the book of the records" to prove its dangerous nature and to justify halting its reconstruction [[Ezra 4:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **chărab** `{{H2718}}` is a precise Aramaic term for destruction used in a specific political and historical context. Its single biblical appearance demonstrates how the demolition of a city can be presented as a justified consequence of its rebellious actions. The word functions as the punitive result of the city being **hurtful** `{{H5142}}` and having a history of **sedition** `{{H849}}`, as argued in the formal complaint found in [[Ezra 4:15]].
TRV