The Aramaic word kikkêr, represented by H3604, is the term for a talent. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its usage highly specific. The word is an Aramaic corresponding term for a talent, a large unit of weight and value.
The single biblical occurrence of H3604 is found in the book of Ezra. It is used in a royal decree to quantify a large amount of precious metal being allocated for the temple in Jerusalem. The verse specifies a provision of "an hundred talents of silver" Ezra 7:22 alongside other supplies like wheat, wine, and oil, demonstrating its function as a standard for measuring significant wealth.
Several related words appear alongside H3604 in its sole context, establishing a list of provisions:
- H3702 kᵉçaph (money, silver): This word identifies the valuable commodity being measured by the talent. It is used for "silver (from its pale color); by implication, money" and appears directly with H3604 in the phrase "talents of silver" Ezra 7:22.
- H3969 mᵉʼâh (hundred): This numeral sets the quantity for the provisions. It is used repeatedly to specify "an hundred talents," "an hundred measures," and "an hundred baths" Ezra 7:22.
- H3734 kôr (measure): This is a unit for measuring dry goods, appearing in the same list as talent. It is defined as a "measure for things dry" and is used to quantify the amount of wheat Ezra 7:22.
- H1325 bath (bath): This Aramaic word is a "measure (as a means of division) of liquids." It is used to measure the portions of wine and oil allocated in the decree Ezra 7:22.
The theological weight of H3604 is tied directly to its specific context of divine provision and restoration.
- Royal Provision for Worship: The term is part of a decree from a gentile king to supply the house of God. The massive quantity, "an hundred talents," signifies the scale of the resources being directed toward supporting the worship of God in Jerusalem Ezra 7:22.
- Valuation of Resources: As a unit of high value, the talent emphasizes the immense material wealth dedicated to the temple. Its use underscores the importance of the mission to re-establish proper worship according to the Law.
In summary, H3604 is a precise Aramaic term for a talent, a large measure of value. Its single appearance in scripture firmly places it within an administrative and logistical context: the provisioning of the Jerusalem temple. While its usage is limited, it plays a key role in quantifying the significant wealth set aside for the restoration of worship, as documented in Ezra 7:22.
TRV