### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼĕçûwr**, represented by `{{H613}}`, refers to a {a bond (especially manacles of a prisoner)}; **band**, **imprisonment**. It is a specific term, appearing only **3 times** across **3 unique verses**. Its meaning encompasses both the literal act of confining a person and the figurative use of a band for restraint.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H613}}` is used in two distinct biblical contexts. In the book of Ezra, it appears in a legal decree. The king's law states that anyone who disobeys should face judgment, which could include **imprisonment** [[Ezra 7:26]]. In the book of Daniel, the word is used twice in a prophetic vision where a tree is cut down, but its stump is preserved by a **band** of iron and brass, signifying a period of divinely-ordained restraint ([[Daniel 4:15]], [[Daniel 4:23]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the concept of judgment and restraint:
* `{{H6523}}` **parzel** (iron): This word is used to describe the material of the restraining **band** in Daniel's vision, highlighting its strength and unyielding nature [[Daniel 4:15]].
* `{{H5174}}` **nᵉchâsh** (brass): Paired with iron, this material also makes up the **band** `{{H613}}` that binds the tree stump in the vision [[Daniel 4:15]].
* `{{H8332}}` **shᵉrôshûw** (banishment): This term is listed as another severe punishment alongside **imprisonment** `{{H613}}` in the decree found in Ezra, defining a spectrum of legal consequences [[Ezra 7:26]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H613}}` lies in its portrayal of authority and limitation.
* **Civil and Divine Law:** In Ezra, **imprisonment** is presented as a legitimate consequence for breaking the law of both God and the king, establishing a clear framework for justice [[Ezra 7:26]].
* **Figurative Restraint:** The **band** in Daniel is not meant to destroy but to preserve the "stump" during a period of judgment. It symbolizes a temporary limitation imposed by God until a set time passes [[Daniel 4:23]].
* **Strength of Judgment:** The use of `{{H6523}}` **iron** and `{{H5174}}` **brass** for the **band** signifies the formidable and inescapable nature of the restraint decreed in the vision [[Daniel 4:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H613}}` **ʼĕçûwr** is a focused term that conveys the idea of binding and confinement. Whether used to describe the legal punishment of **imprisonment** or a prophetic, symbolic **band** of restraint, it consistently points to an enforced limitation of freedom, either by human authority as prescribed by law or by divine authority in the outworking of a heavenly decree.
TRV