### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **nishtᵉvân**, represented by `{{H5407}}`, means **letter** or {an epistle}. This specific term for a formal piece of correspondence appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Ezra, highlighting its role in official communications during a critical period of Israel's history.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H5407}}` consistently refers to official letters sent to or from a king concerning the affairs of the Jews in Jerusalem. King Artaxerxes confirms receiving such a document, stating, "The **letter** which ye sent unto us hath been plainly read before me" [[Ezra 4:18]]. This correspondence had direct consequences; when a "copy of king Artaxerxes' **letter** was read," it caused the opposition to go and make the Jews cease their work "by force and power" [[Ezra 4:23]]. The term is also used when officials awaited a royal decision, halting work until "they returned answer by **letter** concerning this matter" to King Darius [[Ezra 5:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the creation and function of a **nishtᵉvân**:
* `{{H5613}}` **çâphêr** (scribe): This refers to the official writer of documents. The **scribe** Shimshai is a key figure who receives a royal letter that halts the rebuilding in Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:23]].
* `{{H6573}}` **parshegen** (copy): This word, meaning {a transcript}, is used in direct connection with `{{H5407}}` to describe "the **copy** of king Artaxerxes' letter" [[Ezra 4:23]], indicating the practice of duplicating and distributing official correspondence.
* `{{H7972}}` **shᵉlach** (to send): This verb, meaning {to send away, for, or out}, describes the action performed with a letter. Kings would **send** answers to their officials [[Ezra 4:17]], and the letters themselves were **sent** by messengers to the king [[Ezra 4:18]].
* `{{H8421}}` **tûwb** (to return an answer): This term specifies the function of a letter as a reply. In one instance, a matter is paused pending a royal decision, which was expected when they **returned answer** by letter [[Ezra 5:5]].
### Theological Significance
While not a broad theological term, the use of `{{H5407}}` carries significant weight in the context of God's unfolding plan for Israel.
* **Instrument of Royal Authority:** The **letter** functions as a tool of kings. The decree in the letter from King Artaxerxes carried enough power to stop the work on the temple, demonstrating the force of earthly authority [[Ezra 4:23]].
* **Formal Communication and Opposition:** The use of a **nishtᵉvân** documents the official, organized opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem. These letters were not casual notes but formal instruments of political maneuvering [[Ezra 4:18]].
* **Providential Record:** These letters serve as a historical record within Scripture, documenting the challenges faced by the returning exiles. The need to send a **letter** and await a reply from King Darius becomes a key plot point in the narrative of God's people [[Ezra 5:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5407}}` is a precise term for a formal letter or epistle. Its limited use within Ezra frames it as a word for official, royal correspondence that directly impacts the historical events of the time. These letters are instruments of power and administration, capable of halting God's work through human authority, yet also serving as the documented means by which that work would eventually be permitted to continue.
TRV