### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂrâmîyth**, represented by `{{H762}}`, refers to the **Syrian language or tongue**. It is a specialized term, appearing **5 times** across **4 unique verses**, used adverbially to describe communication happening "in Syriac." Its biblical function is to identify the specific language being used in contexts of formal or international dialogue.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H762}}` appears exclusively in moments of high-level communication. The Chaldeans use it when they speak to the king about his dream [[Daniel 2:4]]. A formal letter written to Artaxerxes, king of Persia, was composed and interpreted **in the Syrian tongue** [[Ezra 4:7]], indicating its use in official government correspondence. In parallel accounts, Jewish officials ask an Assyrian envoy to speak **in the Syrian language**, which they understand, in order to prevent the common people on the wall from overhearing their conversation ([[2 Kings 18:26]], [[Isaiah 36:11]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which `{{H762}}` is used:
* `{{H1696}}` **dâbar** (to speak): This word describes the very action for which a language is needed. It is frequently paired with `{{H762}}`, as when officials request that the envoy **speak** in the Syrian language [[Isaiah 36:11]].
* `{{H3066}}` **Yᵉhûwdîyth** (in the Jews' language): This term is presented as a direct alternative to `{{H762}}`. Its use emphasizes a distinction between the international language of diplomacy and the local tongue of the people of Judah [[2 Kings 18:26]].
* `{{H8085}}` **shâmaʻ** (to hear intelligently): This word clarifies the purpose of using `{{H762}}`. The officials in Jerusalem request it because they **understand** it, linking the language to comprehension and specialized knowledge [[Isaiah 36:11]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H762}}` is primarily functional, highlighting the dynamics of communication in the ancient world.
* **Language of Diplomacy:** Its use between Chaldeans and a king, in letters to a Persian ruler, and between Jewish and Assyrian officials establishes it as a language for international and courtly affairs ([[Daniel 2:4]], [[Ezra 4:7]]).
* **Strategic Exclusion:** The deliberate choice to use `{{H762}}` instead of the local "Jews' language" was a tactic to keep sensitive negotiations private and prevent the general public from understanding the discussion [[Isaiah 36:11]].
* **A Marker of Education:** The ability to understand `{{H762}}` served as a distinction between educated officials and the common people, who were only familiar with their native tongue [[2 Kings 18:26]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼĂrâmîyth** `{{H762}}` is not merely a linguistic label but a key indicator of context within scripture. Though used infrequently, its appearances consistently point to a world where language choice was a critical tool in diplomacy, administration, and military negotiation. It illustrates a clear division between the formal language of the powerful and the common language of the people.
TRV