### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The word **nishtᵉvân** `{{H5406}}`, which is probably of Persian origin, refers to an **epistle** or **letter**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, both within the book of Ezra. Its usage points to formal, official correspondence, often of royal significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H5406}}` are found in contexts of communication with the Persian king Artaxerxes. In the first instance, a **letter** is written by adversaries of Israel to the king, detailing their complaints [[Ezra 4:7]]. The verse specifies that this formal communication was written and then required interpretation. Later, the term describes the **letter** given by King Artaxerxes to Ezra the scribe, which contained authoritative decrees concerning the law of God [[Ezra 7:11]]. In this case, it is specifically a **copy** `{{H6572}}` of the official document.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of a `{{H5406}}` **letter**:
* `{{H3789}}` **kâthab** (to write): This primitive root signifies the act of inscribing or recording, as seen when the letter to Artaxerxes was **written** [[Ezra 4:7]].
* `{{H3791}}` **kâthâb** (something written): This refers to the physical document itself, a record or book. The Bible notes that "the **writing** of the letter" was in a specific tongue [[Ezra 4:7]].
* `{{H6572}}` **parshegen** (a transcript; copy): This word emphasizes the official and verifiable nature of the document given to Ezra, which was a **copy** of the king's letter [[Ezra 7:11]].
* `{{H8638}}` **tirgam** (to transfer, i.e. translate; interpret): The letter in [[Ezra 4:7]] had to be **interpreted**, highlighting the cross-cultural and official nature of the communication.
* `{{H2706}}` **chôq** (an enactment; decree; statute): The letter from the king to Ezra was powerful because it contained **statutes** to be followed, giving it legal force [[Ezra 7:11]].
### Theological Significance
While the term itself is administrative, its context reveals the importance of written authority.
* **Vehicle for Divine Law:** The royal **letter** `{{H5406}}` given to Ezra was instrumental in re-establishing the law of God in Israel, as it contained the "words `{{H1697}}` of the commandments `{{H4687}}` of the LORD, and of his statutes `{{H2706}}`" [[Ezra 7:11]]. It shows a secular decree being used to advance a divine purpose.
* **Official Communication:** These letters were not casual messages but formal epistles carrying the weight of royal authority. They were **written** `{{H3789}}`, copied, and sometimes interpreted, underscoring their legal and political significance.
* **Permanent Record:** The emphasis on a **writing** `{{H3791}}` and a **copy** `{{H6572}}` points to the value of a permanent, authoritative record for matters of law and state, a principle that echoes God's own laws being written for his people.
### Summary
In summary, **nishtᵉvân** `{{H5406}}` denotes a formal, authoritative **letter** or epistle. Though used only twice, its appearances in Ezra are pivotal, representing official communications that influenced the history of Israel. These letters highlight the power of the written word to convey royal decrees, and in one case, to serve as the official vehicle for implementing God's commandments and statutes among His people.
TRV