The Aramaic word ʻêz, represented by H5796, refers to a goat. According to its definition, it corresponds to its Hebrew counterpart and can denote a she-goat, though it is used in the masculine plural form. This term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse within the biblical text, highlighting a very specific and singular usage.
The sole appearance of H5796 is in Ezra 6:17, which documents the sacrifices made at the dedication of the restored house of God. In this context, twelve he goats are offered as a sin offering for all of Israel. This specific number is explicitly linked to the "number of the tribes of Israel," signifying that this sacrifice was made on behalf of the entire nation during a pivotal moment of rededication and worship.
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the use of ʻêz:
- H2597 chănukkâʼ (dedication): This word defines the ceremony during which the goats were offered, marking the consecration of the new house of God in Jerusalem Ezra 6:17.
- H2402 chaṭṭâʼâh (sin offering): This term clarifies the purpose of the twelve goats, identifying them as a sacrifice for an offense Ezra 6:17.
- H8450 tôwr (bullock): This animal was also part of the same ceremony, with one hundred bullocks offered alongside the goats, rams, and lambs Ezra 6:17.
- H1798 dᵉkar (ram): Two hundred rams were included in the offerings for the dedication, showing the scale of the event Ezra 6:17.
The theological significance of H5796 is derived entirely from its single, powerful context.
- National Atonement: The twelve goats serve as a sin offering specifically "for all Israel," directly connecting the animal sacrifice to the concept of atonement for the entire community Ezra 6:17.
- Tribal Representation: The use of twelve goats is not arbitrary; it is explicitly stated to be "according to the number of the tribes of Israel," ensuring that every part of the nation is represented in this act of seeking forgiveness Ezra 6:17.
- Sacred Consecration: The offering of the goats is an integral part of the dedication H2597 of the house of God H1005, embedding the theme of atonement within the larger act of re-establishing a holy place for worship.
In summary, while the Aramaic term H5796 ʻêz has only one occurrence, its role is highly significant. It is not merely a name for an animal but a key element in the rededication of the temple. Its use as a sin offering representing the twelve tribes of Israel underscores the importance of national atonement in the act of consecrating a space for the presence of God H426.
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