### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **môwth**, represented by `{{H4193}}`, is the term for **death**. Corresponding to the Hebrew word מָוֶת, it is a very specific and rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text. Its sole usage defines it within a legal and judicial framework.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H4193}}` is found in the decree of King Artaxerxes concerning the law of God and the king. In this context, **death** is established as the most severe punishment for those who refuse to obey these laws. The decree outlines a tiered system of justice, where judgment is to be executed speedily for any transgression, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to capital punishment [[Ezra 7:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H4193}}` is clarified by several surrounding words that establish a legal framework:
* `{{H1882}}` **dâth** (decree, law): This word refers to a royal edict or statute. Its use in the passage emphasizes that the punishment of death is a consequence of violating both the **law** of God and the **law** of the king [[Ezra 7:26]].
* `{{H1780}}` **dîyn** (judgement): This term signifies a suit, justice, or sentence. In [[Ezra 7:26]], it is the **judgement** that is to be executed upon lawbreakers, with death being one of the possible sentences.
* `{{H8332}}` **shᵉrôshûw** (banishment): Defined as eradication or exile, this appears alongside death as a severe penalty for disobedience [[Ezra 7:26]].
* `{{H6065}}` **ʻănash** (confiscation): This word for a mulct or fine is presented as another judicial option, specifically the **confiscation** of goods [[Ezra 7:26]].
* `{{H613}}` **ʼĕçûwr** (imprisonment): Meaning a bond or manacles for a prisoner, this is listed as the fourth possible punishment in the decree [[Ezra 7:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H4193}}` is derived entirely from its single, powerful context.
* **Divine and Earthly Law:** The term's use in [[Ezra 7:26]] shows a moment where royal authority is used to enforce divine law. Disobedience to God's law is met with the full force of the king's judgment.
* **Capital Punishment:** The inclusion of **death** as a potential sentence demonstrates the ultimate gravity with which the law of God was to be treated under this decree.
* **Structured Judgment:** Its placement in a list of punishments (death, banishment, confiscation, imprisonment) shows a clear system of justice. It is not an arbitrary act but the highest penalty within an ordained legal structure.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4193}}` **môwth** is a concise and unambiguous term for **death**. Although it appears only once, its context in [[Ezra 7:26]] gives it significant weight, positioning it as the ultimate penalty for violating the laws of both God and the ruling monarch. It serves as a stark reminder of the gravity of obedience and the structured nature of judgment in the post-exilic period.
TRV