The Hebrew word rishyôwn, represented by H7558, translates to permit or grant. It derives from an unused root meaning to have leave. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The single appearance of rishyôwn occurs in the context of the Israelites returning from exile and beginning to rebuild the temple. The verse details the logistics and resources for this monumental task. They provided payment and provisions to the Sidonians and Tyrians to supply materials for the project. This entire transaction was authorized “according to the grant that they had of Cyrus king of Persia” Ezra 3:7. The word here signifies the official, royal permission that legitimized their efforts and enabled the procurement of essential resources.
The theological significance of rishyôwn is tied entirely to its singular, crucial context in the book of Ezra.
- Sovereignty Over Nations: The grant comes from H3566 Cyrus, a foreign king H4428. This demonstrates God's sovereignty, as He moves the heart of a gentile ruler to issue a decree that directly serves to fulfill His covenant promises to Israel Ezra 1:1.
- Divine Provision through Earthly Authority: The grant H7558 was not merely a piece of paper; it was the mechanism that unlocked the necessary provisions for the rebuilding, including money H3701, food, and cedar H730 trees from Lebanon H3844. It shows that God's authorization is accompanied by His provision Ezra 3:7.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy: The actions of Cyrus, including this grant, are presented as the fulfillment of the Lord's word spoken through the prophet Jeremiah. The royal grant is therefore a direct link in the chain of prophetic fulfillment 2 Chronicles 36:22.
In summary, while rishyôwn H7558 is a word of singular occurrence, its role is pivotal. It represents a formal grant or permit that underscores a key theological truth: God can and does use secular, political authority to accomplish His sacred purposes. The permit from King Cyrus was the tangible, legal instrument through which God's will to rebuild His temple was put into motion, demonstrating His ultimate authority over all earthly kings and kingdoms.
