### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **chădâth**, represented by `{{H2323}}`, is the term for **new**. As an Aramaic word corresponding to the Hebrew חָדָשׁ, its use is specific and rare. It appears only 1 time in a single verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specialized term within the biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole instance of `{{H2323}}` is found in the book of Ezra, within a decree concerning the rebuilding of the house of God. The verse specifies the construction materials to be used, calling for "three rows of great stones, and a row of **new** timber" [[Ezra 6:4]]. In this context, the word is used literally to describe the quality of the wood, emphasizing that fresh, unused materials were to be part of the construction, with the expenses provided by the king.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words appear alongside `{{H2323}}` in its only context, providing a clearer picture of the construction project:
* `{{H5073}}` **nidbâk** (row): This word denotes a layer of building materials. It is used to structure the command, specifying "three **rows** of great stones, and a **row** of new timber" [[Ezra 6:4]].
* `{{H69}}` **ʼeben** (stone): Corresponding to the Hebrew word for stone, this term refers to the primary foundation material. In Ezra, the temple is built with "great **stones**" [[Ezra 6:4]] and the work is described as prospering [[Ezra 5:8]].
* `{{H636}}` **ʼâʻ** (timber, wood): This is the material that `{{H2323}}` directly modifies. The decree calls for a row of new **timber** [[Ezra 6:4]], highlighting its importance as a building component.
* `{{H1560}}` **gᵉlâl** (great): This term describes the size or weight of the stones. The structure was to be built with **great** stones, indicating a significant and substantial undertaking [[Ezra 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
While not carrying broad theological weight due to its limited use, the significance of `{{H2323}}` is found in its precise, practical application.
* **Quality of Materials:** The specific call for **new** timber, as opposed to reused or old wood, underscores a commitment to quality and integrity in the rebuilding of a sacred space.
* **Fulfillment of Decree:** Its inclusion in the king's decree highlights the level of detail and official support for the project. The provision was not for just any materials, but for materials of a specified quality.
* **Architectural Context:** The word's use is strictly architectural. It functions to ensure the structural soundness and pristine nature of the timber being integrated with the stone layers in the temple's reconstruction.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2323}}` **chădâth** is a specific Aramaic term for **new** that appears once in scripture. Its sole use in [[Ezra 6:4]] is literal and practical, referring to the quality of timber in an architectural decree for the house of God. The word's importance comes not from symbolic meaning, but from the detailed and deliberate nature of the instructions it helps to convey for this significant construction project.
TRV