The Hebrew word Çîyvân, represented by H5510, is the name for Sivan, the third Hebrew month. It is noted as being probably of Persian origin. This term appears only 1 time in the Bible, in a single verse, marking a specific and pivotal moment in the history of the Jewish people.
The single biblical use of H5510 occurs in the book of Esther. On the twenty-third day of Sivan, the third month, the king's scribes were summoned Esther 8:9. On this specific day, a new decree was written according to all that Mordecai commanded. This edict, a reversal of a previous order of destruction, was sent to the Jews and officials across one hundred and twenty-seven provinces, from India to Ethiopia, granting the Jews the right to defend themselves.
The event in the month of Sivan involves several key actions and authorities, represented by related Hebrew words:
- H4428 melek (a king): The decree's authority stemmed from the king. The writing was issued in the king's name and sealed with his ring, making it irreversible Esther 8:8. The concept of a king is also used for God, as in "the LORD the King of Israel" Isaiah 44:6.
- H3789 kâthab (to write): This is the primary action taken on this day. The verb signifies the formal act of inscribing a record or command. The same word is used metaphorically when God promises to write his law on the hearts of his people Jeremiah 31:33.
- H3791 kâthâb (something written, i.e. a writing, record or book): This refers to the physical decree itself. The power of this writing was that it could not be reversed once sealed Esther 8:8. This word also appears in the phrase "scripture of truth," highlighting the divine authority of written records Daniel 10:21.
- H6680 tsâvâh (to constitute, enjoin; appoint, (give a) charge, (give in, send with) command): The decree was written according to all that Mordecai commanded. This word emphasizes the issuance of a formal order or charge, just as God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous Joshua 1:9.
The theological significance of H5510 is derived entirely from the context of its singular appearance.
- The Timing of Deliverance: The specific dating in the month of Sivan marks the historical moment when God's plan for the salvation of His people was put into official motion. The calling of the scribes H7121 on this day turned despair into hope Esther 8:9.
- Authority of the Written Word: The narrative powerfully illustrates the life-and-death importance of a written decree H3791. A written order H3789 under the king's H4428 authority was the instrument used to provide for the Jews' deliverance from their enemies.
- Divine Providence through Human Action: The events of this day in Sivan show divine purpose being executed through human agents. The scribes H5608 were called to write what Mordecai commanded H6680, demonstrating how God works within established structures of authority to fulfill His will.
In summary, while Çîyvân H5510 is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its context gives it profound importance. It pinpoints the exact time of a crucial turning point in the book of Esther, where a royal decree initiated the deliverance of the Jewish people. The event that took place in Sivan serves as a lasting illustration of divine timing and the power of the written word to execute God's sovereign will.
TRV