### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **tsᵉlach**, represented by `{{H6744}}`, corresponds to the Hebrew צָלַח and means **to advance or prosper**. It can be used in both a transitive sense (to promote someone) and an intransitive one (to be prosperous). Appearing just **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, its usage highlights moments of significant progress and elevation in the biblical narrative.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6744}}` describes two primary forms of advancement. First, it is used to characterize the successful progress of a major undertaking, specifically the rebuilding of the house of God. An official report to the king states that the work "goeth fast on, and **prospereth** in their hands" [[Ezra 5:8]]. This prosperity is later attributed to divine and royal sanction, as the elders "builded, and they **prospered**" according to God's commandment [[Ezra 6:14]]. Second, the word denotes the personal advancement of individuals who remain faithful to God. Daniel **prospered** during the reigns of foreign kings [[Daniel 6:28]], and the king **promoted** Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego after their deliverance from the fiery furnace [[Daniel 3:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the concept of prospering:
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This word is directly linked to the prosperity of the work in Ezra. The success described by `tsᵉlach` is the progress of the building effort, as the elders **builded** and they prospered [[Ezra 6:14]].
* `{{H4430}}` **melek** (king): Advancement is often tied to the authority of a **king**. The king **promoted** Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego [[Daniel 3:30]], and the rebuilding of the temple prospered under the command of kings [[Ezra 6:14]].
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** (to do, make): This term refers to the work or action that prospers. In Ezra, the report is that "this work goeth fast on, and prospereth," linking the action of **doing** the work to its successful outcome [[Ezra 5:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6744}}` is tied to the source of the advancement. It illustrates how success is achieved under specific conditions.
* **Prosperity Under Authority:** The rebuilding of God's house **prospered** because it was done "according to the commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and Artaxerxes king of Persia" [[Ezra 6:14]]. This shows that success is an outcome of operating under legitimate divine and earthly authority.
* **Advancement Through Faithfulness:** The promotion of God's servants occurs after demonstrations of unwavering faith. Daniel **prospered** after his deliverance from the lions' den [[Daniel 6:28]], and his three friends were **promoted** after surviving the furnace [[Daniel 3:30]], showing that God honors those who are loyal to Him.
* **Tangible Success:** The word does not describe a vague or internal feeling of well-being, but a concrete and observable forward movement. The building work "goeth fast on, and **prospereth**," indicating clear, measurable progress on a divinely-ordained project [[Ezra 5:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6744}}` is a concise term for divinely or royally sanctioned advancement. Whether describing the successful progress of a national project like the temple or the personal promotion of faithful individuals within a foreign empire, **tsᵉlach** signifies a clear and successful forward movement. It demonstrates that true prosperity is linked to operating in accordance with divine will and faithfulness.
TRV