Topical Encyclopedia Iyyar is the second month of the Hebrew calendar, following Nisan and preceding Sivan. It typically falls in April-May in the Gregorian calendar. In the Bible, Iyyar is referred to as Ziv, which means "brightness" or "splendor," reflecting the blossoming of nature during this time. This month holds significant historical and religious importance in the biblical narrative.Biblical References: 1. Construction of the Temple: Iyyar is notably mentioned in the context of the construction of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 6:1 , it is recorded, "In the four hundred and eightieth year after the Israelites had come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, in the month of Ziv (the second month), he began to build the house of the LORD." This highlights the commencement of one of the most significant projects in Israel's history, marking a period of national and spiritual development. 2. Journey from Egypt: The Israelites' journey from Egypt also intersects with the month of Iyyar. In Exodus 16:1 , it is stated, "On the fifteenth day of the second month after they had left the land of Egypt, the whole congregation of Israel came to the Wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai." This passage underscores the early stages of the Israelites' wilderness journey, a time of testing and divine provision, as God provided manna for sustenance. 3. Hezekiah’s Passover: In 2 Chronicles 30:2-3 , King Hezekiah decided to hold a Passover celebration in the second month, Iyyar, because the priests had not consecrated themselves in sufficient numbers, and the people had not gathered in Jerusalem in the first month. "For the king and his officials and the whole assembly in Jerusalem had decided to keep the Passover in the second month, since they had been unable to observe it at the regular time because not enough priests had consecrated themselves and the people had not gathered in Jerusalem." This event illustrates the flexibility within the law to accommodate the spiritual needs of the people. Religious Significance: Iyyar is a month of transition and preparation. It serves as a bridge between the liberation celebrated during Passover in Nisan and the giving of the Torah commemorated during Shavuot in Sivan. The counting of the Omer, a period of 49 days between Passover and Shavuot, continues throughout Iyyar, emphasizing spiritual growth and anticipation. Agricultural Context: In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, Iyyar was a time of growth and renewal. The spring rains would have ended, and the land would be in full bloom. This agricultural backdrop provides a rich metaphor for the spiritual themes of the month, as the people of Israel prepared themselves for the revelation at Sinai. Modern Observance: In contemporary Jewish practice, Iyyar includes several significant days, such as Yom HaZikaron (Memorial Day for fallen soldiers) and Yom HaAtzmaut (Israeli Independence Day), though these are not biblically mandated observances. The month remains a time of reflection on the themes of freedom, responsibility, and divine guidance. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia IYYARe-yar' (iyar; Iar): The 2nd month of the Jewish year, corresponding to May. It is not mentioned in the Bible. Library Babylonia and Assyria The Iranian Conquest Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Thesaurus Iyyar... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia IYYAR. e-yar' (iyar; Iar): The 2nd month of the Jewish year, corresponding to May. It is not mentioned in the Bible. ... /i/iyyar.htm - 6k Ziv (2 Occurrences) I'yim (1 Occurrence) Izehar (1 Occurrence) Carchemish (3 Occurrences) Cyrus (20 Occurrences) Iyar Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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