### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kâthâb**, represented by `{{H3791}}`, refers to **something written, i.e. a writing, record or book; register, scripture, writing.** It appears **17 times** across **16 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the root verb **kâthab** `{{H3789}}`, meaning to write, this noun signifies the tangible result of that action, whether a royal edict, a genealogical register, or a divine scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3791}}` is used in several key contexts. It frequently denotes official royal documents and decrees, carrying the weight of law. In the book of Esther, a **writing** issued in the king's name is irreversible and is used to communicate commands throughout the provinces ([[Esther 8:8]], [[Esther 1:22]]). The term also functions as a formal **register** for keeping genealogical records, which was critical for establishing priestly lineage after the exile ([[Ezra 2:62]], [[Nehemiah 7:64]]). Furthermore, it can refer to divinely inspired texts, such as the **scripture** of truth revealed to Daniel [[Daniel 10:21]] or the plans for the temple which David received in **writing** by God's hand [[1 Chronicles 28:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of written records and authority:
* `{{H3789}}` **kâthab** (to write): This is the primitive root from which `{{H3791}}` is derived. It signifies the act of creating the written record, as seen in phrases like "the writing which is written" [[Esther 8:8]].
* `{{H4385}}` **miktâb** (writing): A closely related term for a written document, used interchangeably in contexts like the instructions for temple service written by David and Solomon [[2 Chronicles 35:4]].
* `{{H1881}}` **dâth** (decree, law): This often represents the content of a `{{H3791}}`. A royal decree was put into writing to give it legal force, such as the "copy of the writing of the decree" in Esther's time [[Esther 4:8]].
* `{{H5612}}` **çêpher** (book, scroll, register): This term refers to the physical form of the written material, such as a scroll or book. The king sent **letters** `{{H5612}}` to his provinces, each prepared according to its own **writing** `{{H3791}}` [[Esther 1:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3791}}` is significant, highlighting how written records establish divine order and truth.
* **Divine Revelation and Instruction:** The term is used for divinely communicated plans and truths. The detailed pattern for the temple was understood by David through a **writing** from the hand of the LORD [[1 Chronicles 28:19]]. This establishes the written word as a medium for God's direct, unalterable instruction.
* **The Record of God's People:** A crucial theological use of `{{H3791}}` is as a register of God's people. God declares that false prophets will be blotted out and "not be written in the **writing** of the house of Israel" [[Ezekiel 13:9]]. This points to a definitive, divine list of those who belong to the covenant community, a concept echoed in the earthly registers used to verify priestly lineage [[Ezra 2:62]].
* **The Scripture of Truth:** The most profound use appears in Daniel, where an angel reveals what is recorded in "the **scripture** of truth" [[Daniel 10:21]]. This elevates the concept from a mere record to a heavenly book containing ultimate reality and divine decrees, making the written word a source of revealed knowledge.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3791}}` **kâthâb** is more than just a word for writing; it signifies an authoritative and permanent record. From irreversible royal decrees in Esther to the sacred genealogical registers in Ezra and Nehemiah, it establishes legal and communal identity. Theologically, it culminates in the concept of a "scripture of truth," a divine record that reveals God's will and defines who belongs to His people, underscoring the vital role of the written word in biblical faith.
TRV