דְּכַר

דְּכַר

properly, a male, i.e. of sheep

Definition

The Aramaic noun דְּכַר (dᵉkar) specifically refers to a male animal, particularly a ram. In its three biblical occurrences, it is used exclusively in the context of sacrificial offerings, denoting a male sheep or ram to be presented on the altar. This term appears only in the Aramaic portions of the book of Ezra, where it describes the specific animals required for the temple service, as mandated by royal decree (Ezra 6:9, 6:17) and provided for by the Jewish community (Ezra 7:17).

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Aramaic sections of the book of Ezra, detailing the provisions for the rebuilt temple in Jerusalem. It appears in three contexts: as part of the daily requirements decreed by King Darius (Ezra 6:9), in the description of the offerings at the temple's dedication (Ezra 6:17), and in the inventory of items provided by Artaxerxes for worship (Ezra 7:17). In every instance, it specifies a 'ram' as a component of the sacrificial system.

Etymology

This is an Aramaic word, corresponding directly to the Hebrew noun זָכָר (zākār, H2145), which means 'male' or 'remembered one.' The Aramaic דְּכַר shares the same Semitic root (ד-כ-ר / ז-כ-ר) related to maleness and remembrance. Its use in the biblical text reflects the linguistic context of the Persian period, where Aramaic was the language of imperial administration.

Semantic Range

While the word itself is a specific animal term, its consistent use in Ezra for temple sacrifices connects it to the theology of atonement, worship, and covenant renewal. The provision of rams, as specified by דְּכַר, was essential for the sin offerings, burnt offerings, and fellowship offerings that re-established proper worship after the exile (Ezra 6:17). Understanding this term highlights the meticulous obedience to the Mosaic law required to restore the community's relationship with God. In the ancient Near East, the ram was a valuable livestock animal and a standard, high-quality offering in sacrificial rituals. The specific Aramaic term דְּכַר in these Persian decrees shows the imperial administration's detailed involvement in funding and regulating the temple cult in Jerusalem, ensuring the offerings met the religious standards of the Jewish people. זָכָר (zākār, H2145) — The direct Hebrew equivalent, meaning 'male' generally, of humans or animals. אַיִל (ayil, H352) — The more common Hebrew word for 'ram,' used extensively in the Pentateuch for sacrifices. כֶּבֶשׂ (kebes, H3532) — A Hebrew term for a male lamb or young ram, often specified for certain offerings.

Word Details