שְׁנָה

Definition

The Aramaic noun שְׁנָה (shᵉnâh) means 'year,' referring to a standard unit of time. In the biblical Aramaic passages where it appears, it consistently denotes a literal year, often used in administrative or historical contexts to mark durations, dates, or the reigns of kings. For example, it specifies the time work ceased on the temple (Ezra 4:24) and the years of King Darius's reign (Ezra 6:15). No figurative or symbolic meanings are attested for this specific Aramaic form in its limited occurrences.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Ezra and Daniel. It appears in contexts of official records, decrees, and historical narration. For instance, it dates the resumption of temple building (Ezra 5:11), the issuance of Cyrus's decree (Ezra 6:3), and the beginning of Belshazzar's reign (Daniel 7:1). Its usage is consistently chronological and administrative.

Etymology

שְׁנָה is the Aramaic cognate of the Hebrew noun שָׁנֶה (shānâh, H8141), both meaning 'year.' The words share a common Semitic root (שׁ-נ-ה) related to change or repetition, likely reflecting the cyclical nature of the year and its seasons. The Aramaic form is used specifically in the post-exilic biblical texts that were written or recorded in that language.

Semantic Range

In the ancient Near East, a 'year' was a fundamental unit for agriculture, religious festivals, and royal administration. The biblical use of שְׁנָה in Aramaic documents like royal decrees (Ezra 6:3-15) mirrors the official record-keeping of the Persian Empire, emphasizing God's sovereignty over historical timelines and the fulfillment of his promises, such as the 70-year prophecy of Jeremiah.

שָׁנֶה (shānâh, H8141) — The direct Hebrew equivalent, used throughout the Hebrew Old Testament with the same core meaning of 'year.'

Word Details

Scripture References