### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **kᵉthab**, represented by `{{H3790}}`, functions as the primary verb **to write**. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use corresponds to the act of inscribing, describing, or prescribing information, signifying its role in recording events, royal decrees, and divine messages.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3790}}` is used to describe several forms of writing. It is used for the documentation of a prophetic vision, as Daniel **wrote** the dream he had [[Daniel 7:1]]. The word also appears in a supernatural context, where fingers of a man's hand **wrote** a message on the palace wall [[Daniel 5:5]]. It is frequently used for official and royal correspondence, such as when King Darius **wrote** to all people and nations [[Daniel 6:25]] and when Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe **wrote** a letter to King Artaxerxes [[Ezra 4:8]]. The term also refers to the contents of official documents, such as a **written** record found in a roll [[Ezra 6:2]] and the intent to **write** the names of chief men for certification [[Ezra 5:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the act of writing:
* `{{H104}}` **ʼiggᵉrâʼ** (letter): This noun refers to an epistle or official letter. It is the object of the action when Rehum and Shimshai **wrote** a **letter** against Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:8]].
* `{{H1799}}` **dikrôwn** (record): This term for a register is used to describe what was **written**, as seen when a roll was found containing a **record** [[Ezra 6:2]].
* `{{H560}}` **ʼămar** (to say): This verb is contrasted with `{{H3790}}` when Daniel **wrote** his dream and then **told** the sum of the matters, distinguishing between written and spoken communication [[Daniel 7:1]].
* `{{H5613}}` **çâphêr** (scribe): This word identifies the official who performs the writing. Shimshai the **scribe** is one of the individuals who **wrote** the letter to Artaxerxes [[Ezra 4:8]].
* `{{H6600}}` **pithgâm** (letter): Meaning a decree or answer, this term describes the **letter** sent to Darius, which contained what was **written** [[Ezra 5:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3790}}` is found in its role in recording divine will and historical authority.
* **Recording Revelation:** The word is integral to the preservation of divine messages. Daniel **wrote** the dream and visions from his head, establishing writing as a means of documenting and transmitting revelation [[Daniel 7:1]].
* **Manifesting Judgment:** The act of writing becomes a tool of divine intervention. The hand that **wrote** on the palace wall delivered a message of judgment directly to King Belshazzar, showcasing writing as an expression of divine power [[Daniel 5:5]].
* **Establishing Authority:** Writing gives permanence to human and royal decrees that shape history. Whether it is a letter **written** by King Darius to all his subjects [[Daniel 6:25]] or a historical **record** that is found **written** in a roll [[Ezra 6:2]], the word underscores the authority of the written text.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3790}}` is more than a simple verb for making marks. It is a key Aramaic term that captures the act of creating permanent records, from personal accounts of divine visions to the authoritative decrees of kings. It illustrates how the act of writing serves as the foundation for history, law, and the preservation of God’s messages within the biblical account.
TRV