אַחְמְתָא

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The word ʼAchmᵉthâʼ, represented by H307, is a proper noun of Persian derivation identifying Achmetha, the summer capital of Persia. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its single appearance highly specific and significant within the biblical record.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole use of H307 is found in the book of Ezra. It is the location where a critical document was discovered: "And there was found at Achmetha, in the palace that is in the province of the Medes, a roll" Ezra 6:2. This discovery was pivotal, as the roll contained a written record of the decree that authorized the rebuilding of the house of God in Jerusalem.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of Achmetha is clarified by several Aramaic words found in the same verse:

• H1001 bîyrâʼ (a palace): This specifies the exact type of location within Achmetha where the roll was found, indicating a royal or official archive Ezra 6:2.
• H4083 mᵉdîynâh (province): This word identifies the larger administrative region, the "province of the Medes," where Achmetha was located Ezra 6:2.
• H4040 mᵉgillâh (a roll): This describes the object that was found at Achmetha and which contained the important historical record Ezra 6:2.

Theological Significance

While a geographical term, the significance of H307 lies in its role within the narrative of God's providence.

• Site of Preservation: Achmetha served as the repository for an official decree crucial to the history of Israel's restoration.
• Legal Confirmation: The discovery of the roll at this specific administrative center provided the legal basis for the Jews to continue rebuilding the temple, confirming the earlier commandment from King Cyrus Ezra 6:2.
• Historical Anchor: The mention of a real-world capital city anchors the biblical account in verifiable administrative history, highlighting the official nature of the discovery.

Summary

In summary, H307 is a specific place name whose importance far outweighs its single mention. It marks the location of a pivotal discovery that authenticated God's plan for the restoration of the temple. The finding of the decree at Achmetha is a key event in Ezra, demonstrating how a historical record, preserved in a Persian palace, became the instrument for fulfilling a divine purpose.