אַף (aph)
aph
also
A:ConjQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:Conj
Word Overview
The word aph functions as a conjunction meaning "also" or "even." It appears in the Hebrew Bible primarily within the Aramaic sections, serving as a linguistic bridge that connects ideas with emphasis. In Ezra 4:18 and 6:3, it links specific details about royal decrees, ensuring the reader understands that one statement adds weight to another.
As an Aramaic form of the more common Hebrew aph (H0637), it carries a similar additive force. While the Hebrew version can sometimes denote anger or nose in poetic contexts, this particular Aramaic usage remains strictly functional. It signals inclusion, highlighting that the information following it is not separate but integral to the previous point.
Translators typically render it simply as "also" or "even," reflecting its role in building a logical sequence. Its presence marks the text’s bilingual nature, reminding readers that the biblical canon incorporates multiple languages without losing coherence. The word ensures that legal and historical records in Ezra are read as unified documents rather than disjointed fragments.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word אַף (aph) appears as a simple conjunction meaning "also." In Ezra, it links details about royal decrees and temple vessels, ensuring readers see these records as unified rather than fragmented. This linguistic bridge reminds us that God’s work often unfolds through layered historical events.
When reading Scripture, such connections highlight the care taken in preserving history. Each "also" adds weight to the narrative, showing how divine promises are fulfilled step by step. We can trust that every detail matters in God’s plan.
This word invites us to pay attention to the whole story. It encourages patience as we piece together biblical truths, knowing that no part is accidental. May you find comfort in seeing how God’s faithfulness spans generations and languages.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ also3×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ֠/אַף2×
- וְ/אַ֧ף1×
Key Verses
-
Ezra 5:10
We asked them their names also, to inform you that we might write the names of the men who were at their head.
The word אַף emphasizes that the names of the leaders were included to provide complete information for the king's record.
-
Ezra 5:14
The gold and silver vessels of God’s house, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem and brought into the temple of Babylon, those Cyrus the king also took out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered to one whose name was Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor.
It highlights that Cyrus, not just Nebuchadnezzar, was involved in moving the sacred vessels, showing a shift in custody.
-
Ezra 6:5
Also let the gold and silver vessels of God’s house, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple which is at Jerusalem and brought to Babylon, be restored and brought again to the temple which is at Jerusalem, everything to its place. You shall put them in God’s house.
The conjunction stresses that the restoration of these specific items is a direct command from the decree, linking past theft to future return.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does אַף (aph) mean in Ezra?
Why does this word appear in Ezra?
How is it different from other words for "also"?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
Ezra 3 verses
We asked them their names also, to inform you that we might write the names of the men who were at their head.
Ezra 5:14The gold and silver vessels of God’s house, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem and…
Ezra 6:5Also let the gold and silver vessels of God’s house, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple which is at Jerusalem…