Original Word: זְבַן
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: zban
Pronunciation: zeh-BAHN
Phonetic Spelling: (zeb-an')
Definition: to acquire by purchase
Meaning: To acquire by purchase

Word Origin: Aramaic; a root word

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The corresponding Greek term in the Septuagint and New Testament that aligns with the concept of purchasing or acquiring is ἐμπορεύομαι (G1805). This Greek verb similarly denotes the act of trading or buying, often used in the context of commerce and economic activity. It reflects the continuity of the concept of acquisition through purchase across both the Hebrew and Greek biblical texts.

Usage: This Aramaic verb is used in the context of acquiring or buying something through a transaction or purchase. It is found in the Aramaic portions of the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Ezra and Daniel.

Context: The Aramaic verb זְבַן (zeban) appears in the context of economic transactions, reflecting the commercial practices of the ancient Near East. It is used to describe the act of purchasing or acquiring goods, land, or other items through a formal exchange. This term is significant in understanding the socio-economic interactions during the periods when Aramaic was a common language of administration and trade.

In the book of Ezra, זְבַן is used to describe the acquisition of materials for the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. For example, in Ezra 7:24, the text refers to the purchase of goods necessary for temple service. The use of this term highlights the organized and deliberate efforts to restore religious practices and structures after the Babylonian exile.

In the book of Daniel, זְבַן is used in a narrative context, illustrating the transactions and exchanges that were part of daily life in the Babylonian and Persian empires. The use of Aramaic in these sections of the Bible reflects the linguistic and cultural milieu of the time, where Aramaic served as a lingua franca across the region.

Word Origin
(Aramaic) a prim. root
Definition
to buy, gain
NASB Translation
bargaining (1).

[זְבַן] verb buy, gain (ᵑ7 id., buy, Syriac Old Aramaic, Nabataean, Palmyrene זבן (often) Lzb²⁶⁶ SAC⁴⁷, compare Assyrian zibânîtu, scales);-

Pe`al Participle active plural זָ˜בְנִין Daniel 2:8 time ye (are seeking to) gain.

gain

(Aramaic) corresponding to the root of Zbiyna'; to acquire by purchase -- gain.

see HEBREW Zbiyna'

זָבְנִ֑ין זבנין zā·ḇə·nîn zāḇənîn zaveNinInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts