(Aramaic) corresponding to רָחוֹק; {remote, literally or figuratively, of place or time; specifically, precious; often used adverbially (with preposition)}; far.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **rachîyq**, represented by `{{H7352}}`, means **far**. It appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This term is used to describe something that is remote, whether literally in terms of place or figuratively in time, and is often used as an adverb.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H7352}}` is used within a royal decree issued by King Darius. The context is a command to Tatnai, the governor, Shetharboznai, and their associates who were positioned "beyond the river" [[Ezra 6:6]]. They are ordered to "**be ye far**" from the Jews who are rebuilding the house of God in Jerusalem. The word conveys a direct and authoritative command for physical separation, ensuring that these officials do not interfere with the ongoing work.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide context for this command of separation:
* `{{H1934}}` **hâvâʼ** (to exist; be, become): This versatile verb is used to form the imperative command "**be ye** far" [[Ezra 6:6]], giving legal force to the instruction of distance.
* `{{H4481}}` **min** (from or out of): This preposition clarifies the nature of the separation, indicating that the officials are to be far "**from** thence" [[Ezra 6:6]]. It defines the point of origin for the required distance.
* `{{H8536}}` **tâm** (there): This adverb specifies the location from which the officials are to remain distant, translated as "**thence**" [[Ezra 6:6]]. It is also used to denote the location of the king's treasure house in Babylon [[Ezra 5:17]].
* `{{H5675}}` **ʻăbar** (beyond): This term, meaning a region across a river, is used to identify the jurisdiction of the officials being addressed. They are described as the authorities "**beyond** the river" [[Ezra 6:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7352}}` is found in its specific legal and political context:
* **Royal Protection:** The command to be **far** is an exercise of the king's authority. It functions as a protective measure, creating a zone of non-interference around the temple rebuilding project mandated by a previous decree.
* **Establishing Boundaries:** The word establishes a clear and non-negotiable boundary. The officials, including the governor Tatnai `{{H6347}}` and Shetharboznai `{{H8370}}`, are commanded to physically remove themselves and respect the space dedicated to God's work.
* **Enforcement of a Decree:** Used in an official letter, **rachîyq** is not a suggestion but a binding order. It is part of a larger decree ensuring that the work on God's house would not be hindered [[Ezra 6:8]], demonstrating how earthly authority can be used to facilitate a divine purpose.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7352}}` is more than a simple measure of distance. In its single scriptural use, it functions as a powerful term of authoritative command, establishing a legally enforced separation. It illustrates how political power was used to create a protected space, ensuring that potential adversaries to the work on God's house were kept **far** away [[Ezra 6:6]].
TRV