Lexical Summary el: God, mighty one Original Word: אֵל Strong's Exhaustive Concordance these (Aramaic) corresponding to 'el -- these. see HEBREW 'el NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originanother reading for elleh, q.v. Brown-Driver-Briggs אֵל demonstrative pronoun plural these (see אֵלֶּה below), Ezra 5:15 Qr (Kt אֵלֶּה). Topical Lexicon Form and Linguistic Context אֵל (’el) in Strong’s Hebrew numbering is an Aramaic preposition meaning “to,” “toward,” or “into.” Although identical in spelling to the Hebrew noun for “God” (H410), the meaning here is strictly directional. Its single canonical occurrence is in the Aramaic narrative of Ezra 5:15, part of the official correspondence preserved from the Persian period. Historical Setting in Ezra 5:15 Ezra 5 details the inquiry of Tattenai, governor of the Trans-Euphrates, concerning the reconstruction of the temple in Jerusalem. In his report to King Darius he recounts the response of Jewish elders who cite the original edict of King Cyrus. Within that response, the word אֵל appears: “He said to him, ‘Take these articles. Go and deposit them in the temple in Jerusalem, and let the house of God be rebuilt on its original site.’” (Ezra 5:15) Here אֵל marks the movement “to” or “into” the temple. The preposition thus anchors the narrative in physical space—Jerusalem—and theological purpose—the restoration of worship. Directional Emphasis and Theological Significance 1. Restoration of Sacred Space 2. Covenant Continuity 3. Providential Sovereignty in Gentile Decrees Connections with Broader Biblical Themes • Movement Toward God’s Presence – Old Testament: Exodus 25:8, “Then have them make a sanctuary for Me, and I will dwell among them.” The directional thrust of אֵל in Ezra 5:15 mirrors Israel’s earlier journey toward Sinai and later pilgrimage feasts (Psalm 122:1). – New Testament: Hebrews 10:19-22 urges believers to “draw near” (prosérchomai) to the heavenly sanctuary by the blood of Jesus. The physical motion to the restored Second Temple foreshadows the spiritual access granted in Christ. • Re-centering Worship After Judgment – Lamentations mourns the ruined temple; Ezra records the new approach אֵל it. God does not leave His people in dispersion but calls them back to Himself. Practical Ministry Insights 1. Orientation of Life and Ministry Every believer and congregation is called, like the exiles, “toward” God’s dwelling place—now realized in Christ and His body (1 Corinthians 3:16). Ministry should guide people אֵל the presence of God, not merely to programs or buildings. 2. Encouragement for Kingdom Projects The single use of אֵל in a royal directive reminds leaders that even secular authorities can become divine instruments. Pray and plan believing that God can turn hearts and release resources toward His purposes. 3. Stewardship of Sacred Trusts Cyrus’s command to return the temple vessels challenges today’s church to deliver what rightfully belongs in God’s service—spiritual gifts, finances, time—אֵל His glory. See Also • H410 אֵל (“God”) – Not to be confused semantically, yet instructive for how identical spelling can carry vastly different meanings depending on context. In sum, though occurring only once, אֵל (H412) directs our attention to God-initiated movement, covenant faithfulness, and the essential call to turn—body and heart—toward the place where He meets His people. Forms and Transliterations אֵ֚ל אל ’êl ElLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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