### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nᵉçach**, represented by `{{H5256}}`, means to **pull down** or **tear away**. It appears only **1 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible. Its sole use describes a severe and destructive act of punishment mandated by a royal decree.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word's only biblical appearance is in a decree by King Darius regarding the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. To protect the project, he commands that if anyone alters his word, "let timber be **pulled down** from his house" [[Ezra 6:11]]. This action is the first step in a harsh punishment, where the structural elements of a violator's own home are used to construct the instrument of their execution.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from its context clarify the severity of the situation:
* `{{H8133}}` **shᵉnâʼ** (to alter): This is the transgression that triggers the punishment. The decree explicitly forbids anyone to **alter** the king's word [[Ezra 6:11]].
* `{{H636}}` **ʼâʻ** (timber, wood): This refers to the specific material that is to be **pulled down** from the offender's house to be used against them [[Ezra 6:11]].
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm** (decree): This word establishes the legal authority behind the command. The act of pulling down is not random violence but a penalty set within an official **decree** [[Ezra 6:11]].
* `{{H1005}}` **bayith** (a house): This signifies the source of the timber and the target of destruction, turning a place of shelter into a source of judgment [[Ezra 6:11]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H5256}}` is centered on the enforcement of divine and royal authority.
* **Irrevocable Judgment:** The act of being "pulled down" is part of a sentence for defying a decree that facilitates God's will. It demonstrates the absolute authority behind the command and the finality of the judgment for disobedience [[Ezra 6:11]].
* **Symbolic Destruction:** Using timber **pulled down** from a person's own house to facilitate their execution is a powerful symbol. The very structure meant for life and security is deconstructed to become the means of death.
* **Public Deterrent:** This punishment, which also includes being hanged and having the house made into a dunghill, was designed as a public warning against interfering with the rebuilding of God's house [[Ezra 6:11]].
### Summary
In summary, **nᵉçach** `{{H5256}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is defined entirely by its single context. It denotes a violent and punitive act of deconstruction. Its appearance in [[Ezra 6:11]] serves as a stark illustration of the gravity of defying a royal decree that aligns with God's purpose, where the consequence is the complete and symbolic ruin of the offender.
TRV