### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **siṭnâh**, represented by `{{H7855}}`, translates to **accusation** or opposition. This highly specific term appears only **1 time** in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, signifying its use in a very particular context of formal opposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H7855}}` is found in [[Ezra 4:6]], which states that during the **reign** `{{H4438}}` of **Ahasuerus** `{{H325}}`, an **accusation** was written against the people of Judah and Jerusalem. The verse specifies that this was done "in the **beginning** `{{H8462}}` of his reign," indicating a deliberate attempt to obstruct the inhabitants of **Judah** `{{H3063}}` and **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}` by appealing to a new king.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H7855}}` is illuminated by the words surrounding it in its only appearance:
* `{{H3789}}` **kâthab** (to write): Defined as "to grave, by implication, to write," this is the action that gives the **accusation** its official and permanent form. The opposition was not merely spoken but formally recorded [[Ezra 4:6]].
* `{{H325}}` **ʼĂchashvêrôwsh** (Ahasuerus): The recipient of the written **accusation**, identified as "the title (rather than name) of a Persian king." This highlights that the opposition was directed to the highest earthly authority [[Ezra 4:6]].
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): This name for the tribe and its territory identifies the target of the **accusation**. The opposition was specifically aimed at the people of God and their capital city [[Ezra 4:6]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H7855}}` is defined by its singular, pointed usage.
* **Formalized Opposition:** Unlike a simple disagreement, a `siṭnâh` is an official, documented charge. The act of having it **written** `{{H3789}}` and presented to a king demonstrates a calculated, legalistic form of attack [[Ezra 4:6]].
* **Political Obstruction:** The **accusation** is timed to coincide with the **beginning** `{{H8462}}` of a new king's **reign** `{{H4438}}`, suggesting a strategic attempt to use political means to halt the activities of the people of **Judah** `{{H3063}}` and **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}`.
* **Targeted Hostility:** The term is used exclusively in the context of an attack against God's people. The **accusation** is leveled against the **inhabitants** `{{H3427}}` of Judah and Jerusalem, framing it as a tool of those who opposed their restoration.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7855}}` **siṭnâh** is a precise term for a formal, written **accusation**. Its sole biblical appearance in [[Ezra 4:6]] defines it as an official complaint lodged with a king to generate opposition. The word powerfully illustrates how hostility can be channeled through legal and political systems to create obstacles for God's people.
TRV