### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **sîyb**, represented by `{{H7868}}`, translates to **elder**. Its base definition relates to becoming aged or growing gray. The term appears **5 times** in **5 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Ezra, where it consistently denotes a position of leadership and authority within the post-exilic Jewish community.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7868}}` is used to identify the key leaders responsible for rebuilding the house of God in Jerusalem. These **elders** are depicted as the acting authority for the Jewish people, overseeing the construction project. God's eye is upon the **elders** of the Jews to protect them from interference [[Ezra 5:5]]. Foreign officials question these **elders** directly about who authorized them to build [[Ezra 5:9]], and King Darius issues a decree to provide them with resources from the royal treasury so the work is not hindered [[Ezra 6:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and role of the **elders**:
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build; build, make): This verb describes the primary activity of the elders. They are the ones who **build** the house of God [[Ezra 6:7]], and the success of the project is attributed to their efforts in building [[Ezra 6:14]].
* `{{H3062}}` **Yᵉhûwdâʼîy** (Jew): This word defines the community that the elders lead. In every instance, they are referred to as "the **elders** of the **Jews**," grounding their authority in their identity as leaders of the Israelite people ([[Ezra 5:5]], [[Ezra 6:7]]).
* `{{H6347}}` **pechâh** (governor): This term for a civil authority appears alongside **elder**, indicating a shared leadership structure. The decree is to let the **governor** of the Jews and the **elders** of the Jews build the house of God [[Ezra 6:7]].
### Theological Significance
The contextual significance of `{{H7868}}` is tied to leadership and divine purpose during a critical period of restoration.
* **Restoration Leadership:** The **elders** are the sanctioned leaders directing the reconstruction of the Temple. Their role is central to re-establishing worship and community life after the exile [[Ezra 6:14]].
* **Sanctioned Authority:** Their work is explicitly validated by both divine and earthly powers. They operate under the protection of God [[Ezra 5:5]] and with the official backing and resources of the Persian kings [[Ezra 6:8]].
* **Community Representation:** The **elders** act as the formal representatives of the Jewish people. They are the ones who interact with the Persian authorities and are held responsible for carrying out the commandment to rebuild God's house [[Ezra 5:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7868}}` is a specific and focused term for **elder** that signifies more than just age. Within its biblical context, it represents active, recognized leadership. The **elders** of the Jews are the instrumental figures in the rebuilding of the Temple, acting with authority granted by both God and the ruling empire. Their story illustrates a practical model of civil and religious leadership working to fulfill a divine mandate.
TRV