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.
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.
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.
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.
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