### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **minyân**, represented by `{{H4510}}`, means **enumeration** or **number**. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text, highlighting its specialized use.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4510}}` is in [[Ezra 6:17]], which documents the sacrifices offered at the dedication of the second temple. In this verse, after listing hundreds of bullocks, rams, and lambs, a specific sin offering is made for all of Israel. This offering consists of "twelve he goats, according to the **number** of the tribes of Israel." The use of **minyân** here is precise, tying the quantity of the atoning sacrifice directly to the foundational structure of the nation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this single verse connects `{{H4510}}` to several other important Aramaic terms related to worship and national identity:
* `{{H2597}}` **chănukkâʼ** (consecration; dedication): This is the specific event—the dedication of God's house—where the "number" of sacrifices holds symbolic weight [[Ezra 6:17]].
* `{{H7625}}` **shᵉbaṭ** (a clan; tribe): This is the entity being enumerated. The number of sacrifices corresponds to the number of the "tribes" of Israel, signifying national completeness [[Ezra 6:17]].
* `{{H2402}}` **chaṭṭâʼâh** and `{{H2409}}` **chăṭṭâyâʼ** (an offence... sin offering): These words define the purpose of the twelve goats, which are offered as a "sin offering" for all Israel, with their quantity determined by the **minyân** [[Ezra 6:17]].
* `{{H8648}}` **tᵉrêyn** (two) and `{{H6236}}` **ʻăsar** (ten): These numerals combine to form "twelve," the specific **number** (minyân) of goats offered, representing the twelve tribes [[Ezra 6:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4510}}` is concentrated entirely within its use at the temple dedication.
* **National Representation:** The "number" of the sin offering—twelve goats—is explicitly stated to be for "all Israel" according to the tribes. This use of **minyân** underscores the idea that the restored community represents the entire covenant nation.
* **Comprehensive Atonement:** By linking the sacrifice to the total number of tribes, the text emphasizes that the atonement sought at the temple's dedication was intended to be complete, covering every part of Israel.
* **Symbolic Order in Worship:** The careful enumeration demonstrates the importance of precision and symbolic action in sacred ceremonies. The number was not arbitrary but was a deliberate reflection of God's covenant structure with his people.
### Summary
In summary, while **minyân** `{{H4510}}` is a term of extremely limited use, its single appearance is potent. It functions not merely as a count but as a deliberate and symbolic **enumeration** that connects the act of sacrificial worship to the theological concepts of national unity, complete atonement, and the covenantal identity of the twelve tribes of Israel at a pivotal moment in their history.
TRV