The Aramaic word rᵉʻûwth, represented by H7470, translates to desire; pleasure, will. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This term is used to articulate the expressed will or preference of an authority, whether it be a human king or God himself.
In its biblical appearances, H7470 is used in contexts of official decision-making. In Ezra, a request is made to the king to investigate a decree and then "send his pleasure to us concerning this matter," signifying a formal, binding decision Ezra 5:17. In a different chapter, the term is applied to divine authority, instructing that the remaining silver and gold be used "after the will of your God," linking the word to acting in accordance with God's desire Ezra 7:18.
Several related Aramaic words provide context for the concept of will and authority:
- H2869 ṭâb (good; fine, good): This word is used in the phrase "if it seem good to the king" immediately preceding the request for his "pleasure" Ezra 5:17, linking what is considered good with the resulting will.
- H3191 yᵉṭab (to be (causative) make well...; seem good): Similar to the above, this word appears in the phrase "whatsoever shall seem good to thee" as the basis for action that is carried out according to God's "will" Ezra 7:18.
- H4430 melek (a king; king, royal): As the one whose "pleasure" is sought, the king is the source of the authoritative will in the earthly realm Ezra 5:17.
- H7972 shᵉlach (to send away, for, or out...; put, send): This is the action associated with communicating a decision, as in the request to "let the king send his pleasure" Ezra 5:17.
The theological significance of H7470 is found in its application to both human and divine spheres of authority.
- Royal and Divine Will: The term is applied to the pleasure of an earthly king Ezra 5:17 and the will of God Ezra 7:18. This parallel use elevates the concept of God's will to the level of an ultimate, binding decree.
- Guidance for Divine Work: The "will of your God" serves as the direct command for how resources are to be used in service to Him, specifically in the context of the house of God Ezra 7:18. It frames righteous action as conformity to God's expressed pleasure.
- Executing Decrees: The word is central to the process of carrying out a plan. Whether seeking a king's permission or following God's instruction, the concept of "will" or "pleasure" is the catalyst that transforms intent into action for the rebuilding of God's house in Jerusalem.
In summary, H7470 is a specific and potent term for an authoritative will. Though used sparingly, its appearances in Ezra are pivotal, capturing the moments where the expressed desire of a king or the explicit will of God directs the course of events. It demonstrates how a communicated "pleasure" becomes the standard for action in both civil and sacred matters.
TRV