The Aramaic word ʼimmar, represented by H563, is a specific term for a lamb. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The word's base definition suggests it is derived from a term meaning "to bring forth." Its biblical usage is exclusively found within the context of animals designated for sacrifice.
In the biblical narrative, H563 appears only in the book of Ezra, where it consistently refers to animals required for temple worship in Jerusalem. The word is part of a list of provisions, including lambs, rams, and bullocks, that were to be supplied for the burnt offerings H5928 of the God of heaven Ezra 6:9. At the dedication of the house of God, four hundred lambs were offered Ezra 6:17. The term is also used in the instructions to buy lambs and other animals to offer H7127 upon the altar of God in Jerusalem Ezra 7:17.
Several related words help define the sacrificial context of ʼimmar:
- H8450 tôwr (bullock, ox): In every occurrence, lambs are mentioned alongside bullocks as part of a larger group of animals for offering Ezra 6:17.
- H1798 dᵉkar (ram): This word for a male sheep appears with lambs in all three verses, establishing a standard set of sacrificial animals Ezra 7:17.
- H5928 ʻălâh (burnt offering): The purpose of the lambs is explicitly stated as being "for the burnt offerings," connecting the animal directly to this specific type of sacrifice Ezra 6:9.
- H2402 chaṭṭâʼâh (sin offering): While the lambs were part of the general offerings, they were offered at the temple dedication alongside he goats designated for a sin offering for all Israel Ezra 6:17.
- H7127 qᵉrêb (to approach, offer): This verb describes the action of presenting the lambs and other animals as sacrifices upon the altar Ezra 7:17.
The significance of H563 in these passages is primarily functional and liturgical, centered on the re-establishment of temple worship.
- Restoration of Worship: The provision of lambs is a key element in the reinstatement of the sacrificial system in Jerusalem following the exile, ensuring the proper rites could be performed Ezra 6:9.
- Component of Dedication: At the dedication of the second temple, lambs were offered in great number, signifying the magnitude and completeness of the consecration ceremony Ezra 6:17.
- Required Sacrificial Animal: The inclusion of lambs alongside bullocks and rams underscores its role as a foundational animal within the prescribed offerings of the Law, necessary for maintaining the covenant relationship with God through sacrifice Ezra 7:17.
In summary, H563 is a precise Aramaic term for lamb used exclusively within the book of Ezra. Its meaning is literal and specific, referring to the animals provided for burnt offerings and other ceremonies at the restored temple. The word's context highlights its importance as an essential component for the formal re-establishment and continuation of worship in Jerusalem.
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