### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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