The Aramaic word lᵉvâth, represented by H3890, is a preposition derived from a root meaning adhesion. It is properly translated as with, but is used idiomatically to mean thee. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, making its specific context highly significant.
The sole use of H3890 is found in a formal letter of accusation sent to a king. In Ezra 4:12, the authors report that the Jews which "came up from thee" have arrived in Jerusalem and are building what is described as a "rebellious and the bad city." In this passage, lᵉvâth establishes the king as the point of origin for the Jews, directly linking their presence in Jerusalem back to him.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of the verse where H3890 appears:
- H5559 çᵉliq (to ascend): This verb describes the action taken by the Jews who "came up" from the king's domain to Jerusalem Ezra 4:12.
- H3062 Yᵉhûwdâʼîy (Jew): This identifies the people who came from the king as the Jews who were undertaking the rebuilding project Ezra 4:12.
- H1124 bᵉnâʼ (to build): This word highlights the central action that prompted the letter, as the Jews were building the city, setting up its walls, and joining its foundations Ezra 4:12.
The significance of H3890 is tied directly to its unique contextual use:
- Establishing Provenance: The word's function in Ezra 4:12 is to pinpoint the origin of the builders. By stating they came "from thee," the writers are emphasizing that the builders originated from the king's jurisdiction.
- Informing an Accusation: The use of lᵉvâth is a key part of the letter's accusation. It links the king to the people who are now described as building a "rebellious" H4779 city, making the matter his direct concern.
- Defining a Political Relationship: The term underscores the relationship between the king and the Jewish people. Their movement and activities are tied back to his authority, which is the basis for the letter's complaint.
In summary, lᵉvâth H3890 is a rare Aramaic preposition whose single appearance is critical to its context. It does more than simply mean "thee" or "with"; in Ezra 4:12, it establishes a political point of origin. Its use is foundational to the letter of accusation, framing the rebuilding of Jerusalem as an action taken by people who came directly from the king's authority, thereby demanding his attention and intervention.
TRV