(Aramaic) corresponding to יָהַב; {to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come}; deliver, give, lay, [phrase] prolong, pay, yield.
Transliteration:yᵉhab
Pronunciation:yeh-hab'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic verb *yᵉhab* (`{{H3052}}`) serves as the Aramaic counterpart to the Hebrew verb *yahab* (`{{H3051}}`), sharing a broad semantic range. Its core meaning is "to give," encompassing both literal and figurative bestowal. This primary sense extends to related actions such as "to put," "to deliver," "to lay," "to pay," and "to yield." In its imperative form, *yᵉhab* can function reflexively or as a command to bring forth, often translated as "come" or "bring." The versatility of this term allows it to describe the transfer of physical objects (e.g., tribute, provisions), as well as abstract concepts (e.g., power, wisdom, judgment).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As an Aramaic word, *yᵉhab* (`{{H3052}}`) is found exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, primarily in the books of Ezra and Daniel.
In the book of Ezra, *yᵉhab* frequently appears in contexts related to the administration of the Persian Empire and the rebuilding of the temple:
* It describes the "giving" of tribute, custom, or toll by the people to the king ([[Ezra 4:20]]).
* It is used in royal decrees concerning the "giving" of expenses and provisions for the temple work ([[Ezra 6:8]], [[Ezra 7:15]], [[Ezra 7:20]]).
* Significantly, it highlights divine action, as when God "gave" Ezra favor before the king ([[Ezra 7:6]]).
The occurrences in the book of Daniel offer a profound theological insight into divine sovereignty:
* God is repeatedly depicted as the one who "gives" kingdoms, power, and dominion to earthly rulers. For example, Nebuchadnezzar's vast kingdom is explicitly stated to have been "given" to him by the God of heaven ([[Daniel 2:37]], [[Daniel 4:17]], [[Daniel 4:32]], [[Daniel 5:18]], [[Daniel 5:19]]). This underscores the transient nature of human authority and its ultimate dependence on divine will.
* The term also describes the "giving" of judgment or authority. The beasts in Daniel's vision are "given" their dominion for a time ([[Daniel 7:6]], [[Daniel 7:12]]), and ultimately, "dominion and glory and a kingdom" are "given" to the Son of Man ([[Daniel 7:14]]). Furthermore, "judgment was given" to the saints of the Most High ([[Daniel 7:22]]), signifying their future vindication and participation in divine rule.
* In a more literal sense, *yᵉhab* is used for "putting" or "casting" individuals into the fiery furnace ([[Daniel 3:6]], [[Daniel 3:15]]).
* The imperative form of *yᵉhab* is frequently translated as "come" or "bring forth," often as a command from a king or a call to action, such as Daniel being told to "come" before the king ([[Daniel 2:16]]) or the command for people to "come out" of the furnace ([[Daniel 3:26]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary Hebrew counterpart to *yᵉhab* (`{{H3052}}`) is *yahab* (`{{H3051}}`), which carries a very similar meaning of "to give" or "to put." Both are distinct from the more common Hebrew verb *nathan* (`{{H5414}}`), which also means "to give" but has an even broader range of application throughout the Hebrew Bible.
Conceptually, *yᵉhab* is closely related to:
* **Bestowal:** The act of granting or conferring something, often by a superior to a subordinate.
* **Sovereignty:** The ultimate power and authority, particularly divine sovereignty over all creation and human affairs.
* **Stewardship:** The responsibility of managing something entrusted by another, as seen in the giving of tribute or provisions.
* **Divine Providence:** God's active involvement and guidance in the affairs of the world, specifically in the appointment and removal of rulers.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *yᵉhab* (`{{H3052}}`) is profound, particularly in the book of Daniel, where it serves as a linguistic cornerstone for articulating God's absolute sovereignty. The repeated declaration that God "gives" kingdoms, power, and dominion to whom He wills (e.g., [[Daniel 2:37]]) is a direct challenge to the ancient Near Eastern understanding of kingly power as inherent or divinely derived from national deities. Instead, Daniel asserts that all earthly authority is a temporary, divinely *given* concession from the Most High God. This truth provides comfort and hope to the exiled Jewish community, reminding them that even in their subjugation, God remains in ultimate control.
Furthermore, the "giving" of wisdom (Ezra 7:6) highlights God as the source of all true insight and understanding. The future "giving" of dominion to the Son of Man ([[Daniel 7:14]]) and judgment to the saints ([[Daniel 7:22]]) points to the ultimate triumph of God's righteous rule and the vindication of His people, providing eschatological hope. The imperative "come" often functions as a divine or authoritative summons, underscoring the call to presence and obedience before God or His appointed representatives.
### Summary
The Aramaic verb *yᵉhab* (`{{H3052}}`) is a versatile term meaning primarily "to give," with extended senses including "to put," "to deliver," "to pay," and "to yield." Its imperative form often translates as "come." Found predominantly in the Aramaic sections of Ezra and Daniel, its usage is critical for understanding the biblical portrayal of divine sovereignty. In Ezra, it describes the practicalities of giving tribute and provisions for temple work. In Daniel, *yᵉhab* powerfully articulates that all earthly power, dominion, and judgment are not inherent but are divinely *given* by the Most High God, emphasizing His supreme control over human history and destiny. Theologically, it underscores God's absolute sovereignty, His role as the source of wisdom and justice, and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom through the Son of Man.
TRV