ke.tav denotes a written text, especially a message to be read or a document set down in writing.

The attested uses chiefly concern a specific written message that must be read and interpreted; they also include a signed legal writing and written material used as a standard or limit.

1. An inscribed message for reading and interpretation · dominant

   In Daniel 5:7 the determined singular form identifies the text which the king asks the wise men to read and interpret. In Daniel 5:24 and Daniel 5:25, the APB renders the clause as a writing that “was inscribed,” followed by the words of the message itself.

   Daniel 5:7Daniel 5:8Daniel 5:15Daniel 5:17Daniel 5:24Daniel 5:25
2. A signed official writing · occasional

   In Daniel 6:9 the writing is what King Darius signs alongside the interdict. Daniel 6:10 likewise refers to the writing after it “had been signed,” locating the term in the setting of an enacted decree.

   Daniel 6:9Daniel 6:10
3. Written standard or stated limit · occasional

   In Ezra 6:18, the construct singular form occurs in the phrase the APB renders “according to the writing of the book of Moses,” identifying a written source for the appointments. In Ezra 7:22, the absolute singular form appears in the clause rendered “without written limit,” where the text concerns a stated boundary.

   Ezra 6:18Ezra 7:22

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB commonly presents the term as “writing,” including a text to be read, interpreted, or signed; it also renders related clauses as “the writing of the book of Moses” and “written limit.” These renderings indicate the clauses’ overall presentation rather than a fixed English equivalent.