### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **kᵉʻeneth**, represented by `{{H3706}}`, is a formulaic term defined as **at such a time**. It is used in the specific context of the phrase 'and so forth'. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Ezra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{H3706}}` is consistently found at the end of official communications or lists within a governmental context. It serves as a formal closing in letters and decrees concerning the affairs of the Israelites under Persian rule. For instance, it concludes a letter from King Artaxerxes to Ezra the priest [[Ezra 7:12]], a letter from the king's servants to Artaxerxes [[Ezra 4:11]], and a royal answer sent to Rehum the chancellor and his companions in Samaria [[Ezra 4:17]]. Its function is to conclude a salutation or a list of people and places, similar to "etcetera" in modern correspondence.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside `{{H3706}}`, establishing its administrative and official context:
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (a king): This word is central to the context of `{{H3706}}`, as the term is used in royal correspondence, such as the letters to and from King Artaxerxes [[Ezra 4:11]].
* `{{H5613}}` **çâphêr** (a scribe): This term denotes the officials responsible for drafting the documents where `{{H3706}}` is found. It appears in the identification of officials like Shimshai the scribe [[Ezra 4:17]] and Ezra himself [[Ezra 7:12]].
* `{{H5103}}` **nᵉhar** (a river): This word is a key geographical marker in these administrative letters, often used to define a jurisdiction, as in the phrase "on this side the river" [[Ezra 4:10]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H3706}}` is a secular administrative term, its context provides significant insight. It underscores God's sovereignty over worldly kingdoms to achieve His purposes.
* **Providence in Politics:** The appearance of this term in official Persian decrees concerning Israel shows how God works through foreign governments. A letter from Artaxerxes, a pagan king, which facilitates the work of Ezra the priest, is sealed with this formal expression [[Ezra 7:12]].
* **Authenticity of Scripture:** The use of specific, formulaic Aramaic, appropriate for the Persian imperial court, lends historical credibility to the biblical account in Ezra. It demonstrates the author's familiarity with the official correspondence of the era.
* **Sacred and Secular Intersection:** The term is part of documents that bridge secular authority and sacred tasks. Letters addressing political opposition [[Ezra 4:17]] or authorizing the teaching of God's law [[Ezra 7:12]] demonstrate that God's plan is advanced through ordinary human governance.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3706}}` is a specialized Aramaic term used as a formal concluding phrase in official documents within the book of Ezra. While it holds no theological meaning in isolation, its consistent use in the context of royal decrees highlights a key theme: the absolute sovereignty of God, who directs the actions of earthly kings and empires to ensure the fulfillment of His covenant promises to His people.
TRV