יְטַב (ye.tav)
ye.tav
be good
A:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:V
Word Overview
The Aramaic verb yṭab means to be good or to be pleasing, serving as the Aramaic counterpart to the Hebrew yaṭav (H3190). It appears only once in the Bible, in Ezra 7:18. In this context, it describes resources that are deemed acceptable or beneficial for a specific purpose.
Its usage here is practical rather than abstract. The text refers to silver and gold that should be used wisely. The word emphasizes suitability and value, indicating that the materials are good enough for the task at hand. This single occurrence highlights how Aramaic, the language of international diplomacy in Ezra’s time, handled concepts of quality and approval.
Translators typically render this as "good" or "acceptable." The term does not carry complex theological weight in this instance but functions as a straightforward descriptor of worth. It reminds readers that even in foreign tongues, the concept of doing good or being pleasing remains a clear standard.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we read Ezra 7:18, the phrase "whatever seems good" invites us to consider how wisdom guides our decisions. The original Aramaic word here points to what is suitable and beneficial for a specific purpose. It suggests that goodness is not just an abstract ideal but something practical and useful in our daily lives.
This perspective encourages us to seek discernment in how we use our resources and talents. Instead of chasing vague notions of success, we can focus on what truly serves God's will and benefits others. By asking for guidance, we align our actions with a deeper sense of purpose and integrity.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- it is good1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יִיטַ֗ב1×
Key Verses
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Ezra 7:18
Whatever seems good to you and to your brothers to do with the rest of the silver and the gold, do that according to the will of your God.
The word appears here to define the criteria for using temple funds wisely, emphasizing that 'goodness' is tied to practical suitability and divine approval rather than personal preference.