### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼâʻ**, represented by `{{H636}}`, is a term for **timber** or **wood**. It appears 5 times across 5 unique verses in the Bible. This word corresponds to the Hebrew עֵץ and is used to denote wood as a raw material for construction or crafting.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H636}}` is used in two distinct contexts: sacred construction and profane idolatry. In the book of Ezra, it refers to the **timber** used in rebuilding the house of God, where it is laid in the walls [[Ezra 5:8]] and structured in rows with great stones [[Ezra 6:4]]. In contrast, the book of Daniel uses **wood** `{{H636}}` to describe the material of lifeless idols, which were praised by Belshazzar and his lords instead of the living God ([[Daniel 5:4]], [[Daniel 5:23]]). The word is also used to describe an instrument of punishment in a royal decree [[Ezra 6:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the use of `{{H636}}`:
* `{{H1560}}` **gᵉlâl** (great): This word describes the size of the stones that are used in construction alongside **timber** `{{H636}}` in the rebuilding of God's house ([[Ezra 5:8]], [[Ezra 6:4]]).
* `{{H69}}` **ʼeben** (stone): This term for **stone** is frequently paired with `{{H636}}`. In Ezra, **timber** and **stones** are the building materials for the holy house [[Ezra 5:8]], while in Daniel, they are listed together as materials for pagan gods [[Daniel 5:23]].
* `{{H7761}}` **sûwm** (to put... lay, make): This verb directly relates to `{{H636}}` in its applications. It describes how **timber** is "laid" in the walls during construction [[Ezra 5:8]] and is also used when a decree is "made" involving **timber** as a tool for punishment [[Ezra 6:11]].
### Theological Significance
The scriptural use of `{{H636}}` carries specific thematic weight:
* **Material for True vs. False Worship:** The word highlights a stark contrast in application. As **timber** `{{H636}}`, it is a key component in the holy construction of the house of the great God [[Ezra 5:8]]. As **wood** `{{H636}}`, it is a material for idols that "see not, nor hear, nor know" [[Daniel 5:23]].
* **Instrument of Law and Punishment:** In the decree of King Darius, **timber** `{{H636}}` is specified as an instrument of state-sanctioned punishment. It is to be pulled from an offender's own house to be used for his execution, demonstrating a principle of justice [[Ezra 6:11]].
* **Symbol of Inanimate Idols:** The inclusion of **wood** among the materials for idols—alongside gold, silver, brass, iron, and stone—serves to emphasize their lifeless and powerless nature when contrasted with the God who holds all human breath and ways in His hand [[Daniel 5:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H636}}` **ʼâʻ** is a specific Aramaic term for **timber** or **wood**. While its usage is infrequent, it is significant. It illustrates a clear biblical delineation where a common material can be consecrated for a holy purpose, like building the house of God, or profaned by its use in the creation of false gods. The context surrounding `{{H636}}` consistently contrasts the sacred with the profane and the living God with powerless idols.
TRV