### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʻesrîyn**, represented by `{{H6243}}`, is the numeral for **twenty**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and limited use within the Aramaic portions of scripture. Its sole function is to denote the quantity of twenty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H6243}}` occurs in the context of King Darius organizing his government. In establishing the administrative structure of his realm, the text states it pleased the king to appoint an hundred and **twenty** princes to oversee the kingdom [[Daniel 6:1]]. This number quantifies the extensive network of officials responsible for governing the vast Persian empire under his rule.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words from its only context provide a clearer picture of its significance:
* `{{H3969}}` **mᵉʼâh** (a hundred): This numeral is used directly alongside `{{H6243}}` to specify the total number of officials appointed by Darius, forming the number one hundred and twenty [[Daniel 6:1]].
* `{{H324}}` **ʼăchashdarpan** (a satrap or governorof amain province (of Persia); prince): This word identifies the officials being numbered. The appointment of one hundred and twenty of these **princes** establishes the administrative framework of the kingdom [[Daniel 6:1]].
* `{{H1868}}` **Dârᵉyâvêsh** (Darius): This is the king who makes the decree. The use of **twenty** is part of his royal act to establish an orderly and comprehensive government [[Daniel 6:1]].
* `{{H4437}}` **malkûw** (kingdom, kingly, realm, reign): This word defines the domain over which the one hundred and twenty princes were set. The number signifies the breadth of the **kingdom** that required such a large administrative body [[Daniel 6:1]].
### Theological Significance
While a simple numeral, the significance of `{{H6243}}` is derived entirely from its narrative context:
* **Administrative Structure:** The number is a key detail in describing the establishment of a large, organized bureaucracy. Darius appointed one hundred and twenty princes over the whole **kingdom** `{{H4437}}`, setting the stage for the political events in the book of Daniel [[Daniel 6:1]].
* **Scale of Empire:** The quantity specified by "an hundred and **twenty**" illustrates the immense scale of the Persian empire. Such a large number of governors was necessary to manage the extensive territory under Darius's control.
* **Foundation for Daniel's Role:** This political structure is the backdrop for Daniel's subsequent promotion. He would be placed over these very princes, highlighting his rise to a position of great authority within this newly organized government [[Daniel 6:2-3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6243}}` **ʻesrîyn** is a straightforward Aramaic numeral for **twenty**. Its importance is not found in complex theological meaning but in its singular, precise role within the book of Daniel. It serves as a factual detail that helps construct the historical and political setting, conveying the vastness of Darius's kingdom and establishing the administrative hierarchy in which the prophet Daniel would soon play a prominent part.
TRV