### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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