### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çᵉbal**, represented by `{{H5446}}`, corresponds to a term meaning **to erect** or be **strongly laid**. It is an exceedingly rare word, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a specific and powerful image related to construction and permanence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5446}}` is found in the decree of King Cyrus concerning the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. In [[Ezra 6:3]], the command is given for the house of God to be rebuilt as a place for sacrifices, specifying "and let the foundations thereof be **strongly laid**". This emphasizes that the foundational work of the new temple was to be solid, firm, and built to last, reflecting the significance of the structure being re-established.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the construction of the temple:
* `{{H787}}` **ʼôsh** (a foundation): This is the object that is to be "strongly laid." The decree in [[Ezra 6:3]] directly connects the strength of the **foundation** with the act of `{{H5446}}`.
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This term describes the overall project. The command in [[Ezra 6:3]] is to **build** the house, with `{{H5446}}` specifying the manner in which the foundation, the very start of the building, should be handled.
* `{{H1684}}` **dᵉbach** (to sacrifice (an animal)): This verb clarifies the purpose of the structure being built. The house of God is the designated place "where they **offered** sacrifices" [[Ezra 6:3]], making its solid foundation essential for the restoration of worship.
* `{{H1685}}` **dᵉbach** (a sacrifice): This noun, used alongside the verb, reinforces the function of the temple. It was to be a place of **sacrifice**, and its construction required enduring strength from the ground up.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5446}}`, despite its single use, is tied directly to the rebuilding of the house of God.
* **A Mandate for Excellence:** The inclusion of this specific term in a royal decree highlights that work done for God, particularly in re-establishing His place of worship, must be done with permanence and stability in mind.
* **Foundation of Worship:** The word is inextricably linked to the restoration of the sacrificial system. A strong foundation `{{H787}}` that is "strongly laid" `{{H5446}}` is the literal and symbolic base upon which the covenant practices of Israel would be resumed.
* **Permanence in Restoration:** By commanding the foundations to be laid with such strength, the decree points toward a lasting and secure restoration of God's presence and worship among His people after the exile.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5446}}` is a precise and impactful term used only once to convey a crucial instruction. Its appearance in [[Ezra 6:3]] is not merely an architectural detail but a theological statement. It defines the standard for the new temple's foundation, linking the physical act of building securely to the spiritual significance of restoring a permanent and proper place for the worship of God.
TRV