### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bar**, represented by `{{H1249}}`, carries a range of meanings including **pure**, **clean**, **choice**, and **clear**. Derived from `בָּרַר` (barar), it appears **7 times** in **7 unique verses** throughout the scriptures, often signifying a state of moral purity or exceptional quality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H1249}}` is used to describe both internal character and external states. It defines the moral condition necessary for approaching God, as seen in the description of one who has "a **pure** heart" [[Psalms 24:4]]. This theme is echoed in the statement that God is good to those with a "clean heart" [[Psalms 73:1]]. The word also characterizes the nature of divine law, where "the commandment of the LORD is **pure**" [[Psalms 19:8]]. In a different context, it describes radiant beauty, being "clear as the sun" [[Song of Solomon 6:10]], or can refer to something being exceptional, like the "choice one of her that bare her" [[Song of Solomon 6:9]]. It can even denote emptiness, as when a crib is "**clean**" because there are no oxen [[Proverbs 14:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the concept of purity and integrity associated with `{{H1249}}`:
* `{{H5355}}` **nâqîy** (innocent; blameless, clean, clear): This word is used in direct parallel with `{{H1249}}` to describe the person qualified to enter God's presence, one who has "**clean** hands, and a pure heart" [[Psalms 24:4]].
* `{{H8535}}` **tâm** (complete; usually (morally) pious; specifically, gentle, dear; undefiled): This term for completeness or being undefiled appears alongside `{{H1249}}` in Song of Solomon, where the beloved is described as both "**undefiled**" and the "**choice** one" [[Song of Solomon 6:9]].
* `{{H3824}}` **lêbâb** (the heart (as the most interior organ)): The heart is frequently the subject described by `{{H1249}}`. The concept of a "**pure** heart" [[Psalms 24:4]] or a "**clean** heart" [[Psalms 73:1]] establishes that this purity is an internal, spiritual state.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1249}}` is centered on the divine requirement for holiness.
* **Internal Purity:** The repeated phrase "a pure heart" or "a clean heart" emphasizes that God's standard goes beyond external actions to the inner disposition of a person ([[Psalms 24:4]], [[Psalms 73:1]]).
* **Divine Standard:** By describing God's commandment as "**pure**" [[Psalms 19:8]], the word establishes purity as an essential attribute of God's nature and his revelation to humanity.
* **Condition for Fellowship:** The connection between a pure heart and standing in God's holy place [[Psalms 24:4]] or being clean in His eyes [[Job 11:4]] shows that purity is a prerequisite for a relationship with Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1249}}` is a multifaceted term that encompasses concepts from physical emptiness to radiant beauty. Its primary biblical weight, however, lies in its definition of moral and spiritual purity. Whether describing the character of a person, the nature of God's law, or the quality of being choice and set apart, **bar** points to a standard of cleanness and integrity, most notably captured in the image of the "pure heart" required to draw near to God.
TRV