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H104 · Hebrew · Old Testament
אִגְּרָא
Iggera
Noun, feminine (Aramaic)
Letter, Epistle

Definition

The Aramaic word iggera refers to an official letter or written communication. Borrowed from Akkadian egirtu, it appears in the book of Ezra where letters are exchanged between Persian officials and the king regarding the rebuilding of Jerusalem.

Usage & Theological Significance

The use of iggera in Ezra highlights the providential sovereignty of God who works even through secular correspondence and imperial bureaucracy to accomplish His redemptive purposes. Letters and decrees from pagan kings become instruments of divine will, reminding us that God rules over all earthly authority (Proverbs 21:1).

Key Bible Verses

Ezra 4:8 Rehum the commander and Shimshai the secretary wrote a letter against Jerusalem to Artaxerxes the king.
Ezra 4:11 This is a copy of the letter they sent him: To King Artaxerxes, from your servants, the men of Trans-Euphrates.
Ezra 5:6 This is a copy of the letter that Tattenai, governor of Trans-Euphrates, sent to King Darius.
Ezra 7:11 This is a copy of the letter King Artaxerxes had given to Ezra the priest and teacher.
Nehemiah 2:7 May I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, so that they will provide me safe-conduct?

Related Words

External Resources

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