### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **mâʼ**, represented by `{{H3964}}`, corresponds to the Hebrew word for **what**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its single usage particularly significant. It functions indefinitely to introduce the substance or content of a statement, specifically a royal command.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H3964}}` is within a decree made by King Darius. In this context, the word introduces the specific instructions for supporting the Jewish elders in their work. The king declares, "I make a decree **what** ye shall do... for the building of this house of God" [[Ezra 6:8]]. Here, **mâʼ** serves to define the precise actions that are to follow, ensuring there is no ambiguity in the royal order to provide for the reconstruction of the temple.
### Related Words & Concepts
The function of `{{H3964}}` is clarified by the words it directly relates to in its only scriptural context:
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm** (decree): `{{H3964}}` specifies the content of the king's **decree**. This royal command was issued to ensure the building of the house of God could proceed ([[Ezra 6:8]], [[Ezra 6:3]]).
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** (to do, make): The word introduces the actions that the people "shall **do**" as part of the decree. It defines the work to be performed in service of the command [[Ezra 6:8]].
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): The purpose of the decree introduced by **mâʼ** is for the **building** of the house of God, a central activity in the book of Ezra ([[Ezra 6:8]], [[Ezra 5:2]]).
* `{{H989}}` **bᵉṭêl** (to cease, hinder): The command specifying **what** to do was given so that the builders would not be **hindered** in their work, ensuring the project would continue without opposition [[Ezra 6:8]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3964}}` is tied directly to its role in authorizing and facilitating God's work through human authority.
* **Defining Royal Sanction:** The word is a key part of a legal command from a gentile king. The "what" it introduces is a set of binding instructions that allocate resources from the king's own tribute for a sacred purpose [[Ezra 6:8]].
* **Ensuring Unhindered Progress:** By specifying the exact provisions, `{{H3964}}` helps articulate a decree designed to ensure the work on God's house is not **hindered** `{{H989}}`. It transforms a general approval into a specific, actionable plan.
* **Linking Command to Action:** It serves as the bridge between the king's decision to issue a **decree** `{{H2942}}` and the specific actions of providing **expenses** `{{H5313}}` so the Jews could **build** `{{H1124}}` the house of God.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H3964}}` is an exceptionally rare word, its single appearance is pivotal. As the Aramaic term for **what**, its function in [[Ezra 6:8]] is to introduce the crucial details of a royal decree. It gives substance to the king's command, defining the specific support required for rebuilding the house of God and ensuring that the divine project could move forward with official, tangible backing.
TRV