### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼăthar**, represented by `{{H870}}`, holds a dual meaning, referring to a specific **place** or used adverbially as **after**. It appears 8 times across 8 unique verses, playing a distinct role in both historical narratives and prophetic visions. Its meaning is determined entirely by its context, whether defining a physical location or a point in a sequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Ezra, `{{H870}}` consistently refers to a designated physical location, specifically the site of the house of God in Jerusalem. The royal decree of Cyrus commands that the house be built in "the **place** where they offered sacrifices" [[Ezra 6:3]]. This theme of restoration continues with instructions to return the temple vessels to their proper **place** [[Ezra 6:5]] and for the work to proceed "in his **place**" [[Ezra 6:7]]. In Daniel, the word shifts to an adverbial sense, structuring prophetic timelines. One kingdom is prophesied to arise "**after**" another [[Daniel 2:39]], and visions unfold in sequence, with one beast appearing "**after**" the previous one ([[Daniel 7:6]], [[Daniel 7:7]]). A unique use appears in [[Daniel 2:35]], where the destroyed kingdoms of the world are so completely removed that "no **place** was found for them."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a richer context for the meaning of `{{H870}}`:
* `{{H1005}}` **bayith** (house): This word is frequently used for the **house** of God, the very structure that gives significance to the "place" where it is built. The goal is to build the **house** of God in his **place** [[Ezra 5:15]].
* `{{H1124}}` **bᵉnâʼ** (to build): This verb describes the action of establishing the sacred **place**. The command is to **build** the house of God [[Ezra 5:15]], transforming a location into a center for worship.
* `{{H5182}}` **nᵉchath** (to place, lay up, depose): This word describes the act of depositing something in its designated location. It is used for the command to **place** the returned temple vessels back into the house of God in Jerusalem [[Ezra 6:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H870}}` is expressed through its dual function:
* **Divine Restoration of a Sacred Place:** In Ezra, the word underscores God's plan to restore worship at a specific, sanctified location in Jerusalem. The rebuilding of the temple "in his **place**" signifies the re-establishment of the covenant community and the proper order of worship [[Ezra 6:7]].
* **Prophetic Chronology:** In Daniel, the adverbial use of "after" is crucial for understanding the divinely ordained sequence of world empires. It establishes a clear timeline leading toward the ultimate establishment of God's kingdom ([[Daniel 2:39]], [[Daniel 7:6]]).
* **Finality of Judgment:** The phrase "no **place** was found for them" [[Daniel 2:35]] conveys the absolute and total annihilation of the earthly kingdoms that oppose God. Their obliteration is so complete that they cease to have any existence or location.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H870}}` **ʼăthar** is a versatile Aramaic term whose meaning shifts from the concrete to the abstract. As a "place," it is central to the post-exilic narrative of restoring God's house in Jerusalem. As "after," it provides the chronological framework for Daniel's apocalyptic visions. Whether defining a physical site for worship or a position in a prophetic sequence, the word highlights themes of divine order, restoration, and ultimate judgment.
TRV