### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **çâphêr**, represented by `{{H5613}}`, is the term for a **scribe**. It appears 6 times across 6 unique verses in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Ezra. The word denotes an official, either secular or sacred, responsible for writing and recording official documents.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5613}}` identifies individuals in official governmental or religious roles. The term is used to describe Shimshai, a civil **scribe** who, along with Rehum the chancellor, wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes opposing the rebuilding of Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:8]]. This role is consistently noted when the king responds to them [[Ezra 4:17]] and when their letter is read [[Ezra 4:23]]. In a sacred context, Ezra is honored with the title of **scribe** of the law of the God of heaven, a designation recognized by King Artaxerxes himself ([[Ezra 7:12]], [[Ezra 7:21]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the scribe's role and environment:
* `{{H8124}}` **Shimshay** (sunny; Shimshai, a Samaritan): The proper name of the scribe mentioned in connection with his official title. He consistently appears as a government official working with his companions against Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:9]].
* `{{H7348}}` **Rᵉchûwm** (Rechum, the name of a Persian and of three Israelites; Rehum): The name of the chancellor who works in tandem with Shimshai the scribe. Their partnership highlights the scribe's role within a governmental structure [[Ezra 4:23]].
* `{{H3790}}` **kᵉthab** (to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe); write(-ten)): This verb describes the primary function of a scribe. For instance, Rehum and Shimshai **wrote** a letter to King Artaxerxes [[Ezra 4:8]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5613}}` is primarily administrative and historical, defining a crucial role in society.
* **Official Record-Keeping:** The role of the **scribe** was integral to government administration. Shimshai, in his official capacity, was responsible for authoring correspondence to the king to influence royal policy [[Ezra 4:8]].
* **Guardian of Sacred Law:** Beyond secular duties, the title is applied to Ezra, a priest and **scribe** of the law of God. This highlights a sacred responsibility for knowing and administering God's commands, a role recognized even by a foreign king [[Ezra 7:12]].
* **Implementer of Royal Will:** Scribes were part of the mechanism for enacting authority. After reading King Artaxerxes' letter, Shimshai and his companions had the power to enforce the king's command and stop the work in Jerusalem by force [[Ezra 4:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5613}}` provides a specific title for an influential official in both governmental and religious spheres. The term **çâphêr** is not merely a descriptor for someone who writes, but denotes an individual with recognized authority, capable of influencing kings and administering law. Through the contrasting examples of Shimshai, the political **scribe**, and Ezra, the priestly **scribe**, the word illustrates the critical function of scribes in the historical and legal narratives of the Old Testament.
TRV