### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **Bablîy**, represented by `{{H896}}`, is a patrial term identifying a **Babylonian** or the land of **Babylonia**. As a term derived from בַּבֶל (Babel), its usage is highly specific. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, marking it as a rare and precise identifier for this group of people.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H896}}` is found in [[Ezra 4:9]]. In this verse, the term is used within a formal list of various ethnic groups. These groups are identified as the "companions" of Rehum the chancellor and Shimshai the scribe, who wrote a letter to oppose the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem. The **Babylonians** `{{H896}}` are listed alongside numerous other peoples, including the Archevites `{{H756}}`, the Susanchites `{{H7801}}`, and the Elamites `{{H5962}}`, demonstrating a broad coalition of settlers in the region.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context help clarify its meaning and function:
* `{{H756}}` **ʼArkᵉvay** (Archevite): This is another patrial term in the same list, defined as "an Arkevite (collectively) or native of Erek," highlighting the use of specific ethnic identifiers in the letter [[Ezra 4:9]].
* `{{H5962}}` **ʻAlmîy** (Elamite): Meaning "an Elamite or inhabitant of Elam," this word appears in the same list as `{{H896}}` and reinforces the multinational nature of the group writing the letter [[Ezra 4:9]].
* `{{H3675}}` **kᵉnâth** (companion): Defined as "a colleague (as having the same title); companion," this word establishes the relationship between all the peoples listed, including the Babylonians, as a unified body of associates [[Ezra 4:9]].
* `{{H7606}}` **shᵉʼâr** (rest): This term, meaning a "remainder" or "residue," is used to refer to "the rest of their companions," indicating that the list, while long, represents a collective whole [[Ezra 4:9]].
### Theological Significance
While not carrying direct theological weight on its own, the significance of `{{H896}}` emerges from its context within the biblical narrative:
* **Historical Precision:** The use of this specific term for "Babylonians" demonstrates the detailed and administrative nature of the record in Ezra. It is not a generic term for foreigners but a specific label for one of many groups.
* **Documenting Opposition:** The inclusion of **Babylonians** `{{H896}}` in the list of those writing "against Jerusalem" [[Ezra 4:8]] documents one of the many political forces aligned to hinder the restoration of the Jewish community and its temple.
* **Coalition Identity:** The word functions as part of a formal roster, giving a specific identity to the "companions" `{{H3675}}` who were part of this official correspondence. It highlights the organized and multi-ethnic composition of the opposition.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H896}}` is a precise Aramaic identifier for a **Babylonian**. Though it appears only once, its usage in [[Ezra 4:9]] is highly informative. It serves to document the specific peoples, including the Babylonians, who formed a political coalition in the province of Samaria. Its presence underscores the historical accuracy of the biblical text in recording the names and affiliations of those who played a role in the post-exilic period.
TRV