אַדְרַזְדָּא

אַדְרַזְדָּא

quickly or carefully

Definition

The Aramaic noun אַדְרַזְדָּא (ʼadrazdâʼ) conveys a sense of urgency, diligence, or careful attention. In its sole biblical occurrence in Ezra 7:23, it describes the manner in which King Artaxerxes commands that the work of the God of heaven be carried out—specifically, that it be done 'diligently' or 'with all care.' The term likely combines ideas of speed and precision, emphasizing both the promptness and the thoroughness required in fulfilling the royal decree related to the temple service in Jerusalem.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in the Aramaic portion of Ezra (Ezra 7:23). It is used in the context of a Persian royal decree issued by King Artaxerxes to his treasurers, instructing them to provide support for the worship and sacrifices at the Jerusalem temple. The word modifies the verb 'to do,' emphasizing that the king's command must be executed with utmost diligence and without delay, reflecting the importance and authority of the decree.

Etymology

אַדְרַזְדָּא is an Aramaic word, likely borrowed from Old Persian. While its exact Persian root is uncertain, it is thought to derive from a compound meaning 'with great care' or 'exactly.' This foreign origin fits the historical context of the Persian Empire's administration, where Aramaic was a lingua franca, and Persian loanwords entered the biblical text during the post-exilic period.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word highlights the theme of divine providence working through secular authority. In Ezra 7:23, a pagan king issues a decree marked by 'diligence' (ʼadrazdâʼ) for the worship of Yahweh, demonstrating God's sovereignty in moving the hearts of rulers to fulfill His purposes. Understanding this term enriches the reading of Ezra by emphasizing that the restoration of temple worship was to be pursued with intentional care, as part of God's orchestrated plan for His people's return and renewal. In the cultural setting of the Persian Empire, royal decrees were binding and required strict, prompt compliance. The use of a Persian loanword like ʼadrazdâʼ in an Aramaic document underscores the imperial administrative language and the expectation of meticulous obedience to the king's orders. This reflects the broader context of Jewish life under Persian rule, where temple restoration depended on imperial sanction and support. מְהֵרָה (məhērâ, H4120) — emphasizes speed or quickness, but without the connotation of careful attention. שָׁקַד (shāqad, H8245) — a Hebrew verb meaning to watch or be diligent, often used for God's vigilant care or human diligence in spiritual matters.

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