(Aramaic) corresponding to פִּתְגָּם; a word, answer, letter or decree; answer, letter, matter, word.
Transliteration:pithgâm
Pronunciation:pith-gawm'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term `{{H6600}}` (פִּתְגָּם, pithgâm) carries a versatile semantic range, encompassing "word," "answer," "letter," and "decree." Primarily found in the Aramaic sections of the biblical text, its flexibility allows it to describe both informal communication and formal, authoritative pronouncements. At its most basic, it denotes an utterance or a spoken "word." However, its usage extends to a "matter" or "thing" under consideration, particularly in the context of a king's dreams or affairs. Crucially, `{{H6600}}` also signifies official written communication, such as a "letter," and the binding nature of a royal "decree" or edict. This breadth indicates its importance in conveying information, authority, and legal or administrative directives within the Persian imperial context of the biblical narratives. It is understood as the Aramaic equivalent or cognate to the Hebrew `{{H6601}}` (פִּתְגָּם).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of `{{H6600}}` are concentrated in the books of Daniel and Ezra, specifically within their Aramaic portions.
* **As "Word" or "Matter":** In Daniel, `{{H6600}}` often refers to the content or "matter" of a dream or vision. For instance, after Nebuchadnezzar's dream, the text states, "the king's word [pithgâm] was urgent" [[Daniel 3:22]], indicating the gravity of his command. Similarly, after his period of madness, it is said that "at the end of the days, I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High... whose word [pithgâm] is truth" [[Daniel 4:33]]. Here, it signifies a divine utterance or truth. In [[Daniel 7:1]], it denotes the "matter" or "contents" of Daniel's dream. The term captures the essence of a communication, whether human or divine.
* **As "Answer":** In Ezra, `{{H6600}}` frequently appears in contexts of official inquiry and response. When the officials inquire about the rebuilding of the Temple, they seek an "answer" from the Jewish leaders, as seen in [[Ezra 5:5]]. The Jews, in turn, provide an "answer" detailing their authority and the history of the Temple, as in [[Ezra 5:11]] and [[Ezra 5:14]]. This usage highlights the administrative and legal nature of the term, emphasizing the official and formal nature of the communication.
* **As "Letter" or "Decree":** The term can also denote a written document or an authoritative edict. In [[Ezra 4:17]], King Artaxerxes sends an "answer" (pithgâm) in the form of a "letter" to the officials, confirming his decision regarding the cessation of the Temple's rebuilding. Furthermore, in [[Ezra 6:11]], Darius issues a "decree" (pithgâm) concerning severe punishment for anyone who alters his edict about the Temple's reconstruction. Here, `{{H6600}}` carries the full weight of a royal command, binding and enforceable.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its Aramaic origin and specific usage, `{{H6600}}` is most directly related to its Hebrew cognate, `{{H6601}}` (פִּתְגָּם), which shares the same root and similar semantic range, though `{{H6601}}` is a rare hapax legomenon in Hebrew.
Other related concepts and words include:
* `{{H1697}}` (davar): The ubiquitous Hebrew word for "word," "matter," "thing," or "speech." While broader in scope and more frequently used, it shares semantic overlap with `{{H6600}}` in conveying information or a subject.
* `{{H2942}}` (ṭa'am): An Aramaic word often translated as "decree," "command," "judgment," or "reason." It frequently appears alongside or in similar contexts to `{{H6600}}` when discussing official pronouncements or administrative decisions.
* `{{H567}}` (ʾāmār): The common Hebrew verb "to say" or "to speak," from which many nouns for "word" are derived.
* `{{H6310}}` (peh): "Mouth," often used metonymically for "utterance" or "command."
The concepts associated with `{{H6600}}` include:
* **Authority:** Especially in its usage as "decree" or royal "word."
* **Communication:** Encompassing both spoken and written forms.
* **Revelation:** When referring to divine words or the contents of prophetic dreams.
* **Legal/Administrative Directives:** Pertaining to official government or religious matters.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6600}}` lies in its capacity to convey the weight of divine and human authority, particularly within the narrative of God's interaction with nations and His people during the exile and post-exilic periods.
When `{{H6600}}` refers to a royal "decree" or "letter," it underscores the sovereignty of earthly rulers, yet implicitly, it points to the overarching sovereignty of God who "removes kings and sets up kings" [[Daniel 2:21]]. The binding nature of human decrees, whether from Nebuchadnezzar, Artaxerxes, or Darius, demonstrates the power structures through which God often works to achieve His purposes, even to facilitate the rebuilding of His temple in Jerusalem.
In Daniel, when `{{H6600}}` describes a "word" or "matter" from God or a divine dream, it highlights the revelatory aspect of God's communication. Daniel's ability to interpret these "words" or "matters" positions him as a conduit of divine truth, emphasizing God's active involvement in human affairs and His ultimate control over history. The "word" of God is presented as truth, enduring and reliable, contrasting with the fleeting nature of human kingdoms.
The administrative use of `{{H6600}}` in Ezra, particularly concerning the "answers" and "letters" exchanged regarding the Temple, illustrates God's providential care for His covenant people. The official communications, though seemingly bureaucratic, are part of God's plan to restore Jerusalem and its worship, demonstrating that even secular administrative processes can be instruments of divine will.
### Summary
The Aramaic term `{{H6600}}` (פִּתְגָּם, pithgâm) is a multifaceted word meaning "word," "answer," "letter," or "decree." Its semantic range allows it to describe both general communication and highly authoritative pronouncements. Found exclusively in the Aramaic sections of Daniel and Ezra, its contextual usage reveals its significance in conveying information, establishing legal directives, and articulating royal or divine authority. Whether referring to the "matter" of a king's dream, an official "answer" in administrative proceedings, or a binding royal "decree," `{{H6600}}` consistently points to the power and efficacy of spoken and written communication. Theologically, it underscores both human authority and, more profoundly, the sovereign will of God as it unfolds through the pronouncements and interactions of earthly rulers and divine revelation, particularly in the restoration narrative of Israel.
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