The Aramaic word kᵉnêmâʼ, represented by H3660, is a particle used to mean so or thus. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible, with all occurrences found in the book of Ezra. Its function is to introduce a quotation, describe the manner of an action, or specify the form of a communication.
In the biblical narrative, H3660 is consistently used within the context of official communications regarding the rebuilding of the house of God. For example, it introduces the content of a formal letter written by Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe to King Artaxerxes "in this sort" Ezra 4:8. It also frames direct verbal exchanges, such as when officials questioned the elders "after this manner" Ezra 5:4 or reported their answer "And thus they returned us answer" Ezra 5:11. Finally, it shows compliance with a royal decree, noting that Tatnai and his companions acted "so" as King Darius had commanded Ezra 6:13.
Several related Aramaic words clarify the administrative and communicative context in which H3660 is used:
- H560 ʼămar ({to say (used with great latitude)}): This word for speaking is frequently paired with H3660 to introduce the exact words that were spoken "thus" during an official inquiry Ezra 5:9.
- H1124 bᵉnâʼ (to build): The central activity being discussed is the rebuilding of God's house. H3660 is used to frame questions about who gave the command to build this house Ezra 5:9.
- H2942 ṭᵉʻêm (decree, command): This term for an official decree provides the authoritative basis for the actions taking place. The word "thus" is used when asking who issued the command to build Ezra 5:9.
The significance of H3660 is primarily functional, serving as a critical connector in narrative and dialogue.
- Introducing Direct Discourse: The word often acts as a formal introduction to a direct quote, whether written or spoken. It signals that what follows is the precise manner or content of a communication, as seen in the letter to Artaxerxes Ezra 4:8.
- Linking Command and Compliance: It connects a royal decree to its fulfillment. When King Darius sent his orders, the officials acted "so" and carried out the work speedily, demonstrating direct obedience to the command Ezra 6:13.
- Framing Official Inquiry: The term is used to structure formal questions directed at the elders of the Jews regarding their authority to rebuild the temple, highlighting the legalistic nature of the conversations Ezra 5:9.
In summary, H3660 is a precise Aramaic adverbial particle that means "so," "thus," or "in this manner." Though its usage is limited to the book of Ezra, it plays a key role in structuring official correspondence and dialogues related to the rebuilding of God's house. It consistently functions to link an action to its manner, a statement to its content, or a command to its execution, providing clarity and formality to the biblical text.
TRV