אֱדַיִן

The Aramaic adverb אֱדַיִן (˒edayin) is a temporal indicator, consistently translated as "then" or "at that time" in English Bibles. Its primary function is to denote a specific point in time or to mark a sequential relationship between events in a narrative. While it does not carry a deep theological meaning itself, its presence is crucial for understanding the chronological flow and cause-and-effect relationships within the biblical texts where it appears, primarily in the books of Ezra and Daniel. It anchors actions to particular moments, helping the reader to follow the unfolding of events, whether historical or prophetic. For example, in the book of Daniel, אֱדַיִן frequently introduces the consequence of a preceding action or the next stage in a divine revelation, highlighting the progression of God's plan or human response to it. This adverb is instrumental in constructing a coherent timeline for the significant events described in these Aramaic portions of Scripture. By establishing temporal connections between clauses and sentences, אֱדַיִן ensures clarity in the narrative structure, allowing readers to grasp when and in what order things transpired. It often serves to introduce a new action or a reaction to what has just been presented, thus maintaining the momentum of the story and guiding the reader through the unfolding drama and divine interventions.