### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʻănash**, represented by `{{H6065}}`, means **confiscation**. This term, corresponding to a mulct or penalty, appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use defines a specific consequence within a legal framework.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The only biblical appearance of `{{H6065}}` is in [[Ezra 7:26]], as part of a decree issued by King Artaxerxes. The decree mandates that for anyone who disobeys the law of God and the law of the king, judgment must be executed speedily. **Confiscation** of goods is listed as one of several potential punishments for such an offense, alongside death, banishment, or imprisonment. This places the term firmly in a context of legal enforcement and the upholding of civil and religious order.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same decree help illustrate the legal context of **ʻănash**:
* `{{H1780}}` **dîyn** (judgement): This word refers to the legal sentence or tribunal. The decree commands that **judgement** be executed swiftly upon those who disobey the law [[Ezra 7:26]].
* `{{H1882}}` **dâth** (law): Meaning a royal edict or statute, this term establishes the authority being enforced. The penalties are for violating the **law** of God and the **law** of the king [[Ezra 7:26]].
* `{{H8332}}` **shᵉrôshûw** (banishment): Listed as an alternative punishment, this term for exile highlights the severity of the legal consequences for disobedience [[Ezra 7:26]].
* `{{H5232}}` **nᵉkaç** (goods): This word, meaning treasure or **goods**, is directly linked to `{{H6065}}`, specifying what is to be seized during the **confiscation** [[Ezra 7:26]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6065}}` is tied to its role in the administration of justice.
* **Dual Authority:** Its use in a royal decree that enforces both the "law of thy God" and "the law of the king" demonstrates the backing of state power for religious law in the post-exilic community [[Ezra 7:26]].
* **Structured Justice:** **Confiscation** is presented as one component of a graduated system of penalties. The inclusion of other punishments like death `{{H4193}}`, banishment `{{H8332}}`, and imprisonment `{{H613}}` shows a formal legal structure with punishments suited to the infraction.
* **Material Penalty:** The term specifically refers to the seizure of property, a "mulct," which acts as a tangible and material punishment for lawbreakers.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻănash** `{{H6065}}` is a precise Aramaic legal term for **confiscation**. Though rare, its single appearance in scripture is significant, positioning it within a royal edict that underpins a formal system of justice. It represents a specific penalty—the seizure of an offender's goods—used to enforce both divine and secular law and restore order in the community of Judah.
TRV