The Aramaic word kᵉʻan, represented by H3705, means now. It appears 13 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. This term functions as a temporal marker, often to introduce a command, declaration, or transition with a sense of immediacy and present relevance.
In biblical narratives, H3705 is used primarily in the books of Ezra and Daniel to frame official communications and royal decrees. It establishes a clear point in time for action or declaration. For example, it is used to issue an urgent warning: "Now if ye be ready" to worship the image Daniel 3:15. It also initiates formal addresses, such as "Now therefore, Tatnai, governor beyond the river" Ezra 6:6. The word can also describe a continuous action up to the present moment, as in the rebuilding of God's house, which has been in progress "even until now" Ezra 5:16. It also marks a personal declaration after a life-altering event, as when Nebuchadnezzar proclaims, "Now I...praise and extol and honour the King of heaven" Daniel 4:37.
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the use of H3705:
- H116 ʼĕdayin (then): This temporal adverb often appears in narrative sequences where H3705 marks the present. In the account of the temple's construction, an initial action was taken "then," and the work has continued until "now" Ezra 5:16.
- H2942 ṭᵉʻêm (decree): This word for a royal command is often connected to the immediacy of H3705. A "commandment" is given "now" to halt the building of the city Ezra 4:21, emphasizing its immediate legal authority.
- H4430 melek (king): The word for king is the most common context for H3705, as it is frequently used in royal pronouncements, letters, and edicts that demand immediate attention from the king (Daniel 6:8, Ezra 5:17).
The significance of H3705 lies in its ability to create a sense of immediacy and consequence within the narrative.
- Urgency in Commands: The word introduces ultimatums and commands that demand an immediate response. When Belshazzar is unable to find an interpretation for the writing on the wall, the summons for Daniel is issued "now" Daniel 5:12.
- Legal and Official Weight: H3705 is used to preface formal decrees and legal arguments, marking the present moment as the point of decision or enactment. This is seen in requests for the king to search the archives "now" Ezra 5:17 and in proposals to establish an unchangeable law "now" Daniel 6:8.
- Pivotal Declarations: The term signals a turning point or a present reality. When Daniel reveals God's wisdom, he states that God has "now made known" the king's matter, marking the moment of divine intervention Daniel 2:23.
In summary, H3705 is more than a simple reference to the present moment. It is a critical Aramaic adverb in Daniel and Ezra that conveys authority, urgency, and narrative progression. Whether in the context of a royal court, an official letter, or a divine revelation, kᵉʻan anchors the statement to a pivotal "now," demanding the attention of all involved.
TRV