The Hebrew word bᵉrîy, represented by H1274, means fat. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its sole use places it within a divine pronouncement, where it serves as a key descriptor to distinguish between two groups.
In its single biblical appearance, H1274 is used by the Lord GOD in a prophecy delivered by Ezekiel. God declares that He Himself "will judge between the fat cattle and between the lean cattle" Ezekiel 34:20. Here, the word provides the physical characteristic that forms the basis for a divine judgment, setting up a stark contrast between the well-fed and the thin within a single flock.
Several related words from its context help clarify its meaning and purpose:
- H7330 râzeh (thin; lean): This word serves as the direct antonym to bᵉrîy in its only verse, creating the core contrast between the fat and the lean Ezekiel 34:20.
- H7716 seh (a member of a flock, i.e. a sheep or goat): This identifies the creature being described as fat. It is translated as cattle in the verse, signifying the subjects of God's coming judgment Ezekiel 34:20.
- H8199 shâphaṭ (to judge, i.e. pronounce sentence (for or against)): This is the action God will take. He will judge based on the division between the fat and the lean, intervening directly in the affairs of the flock Ezekiel 34:20.
- H136 ʼĂdônây (the Lord): This title of God is used to establish the ultimate authority of the speaker who makes the pronouncement concerning the fat cattle Ezekiel 34:20.
The theological weight of H1274 comes entirely from its specific context in Ezekiel.
- Divine Judgment: The word is used exclusively in a declaration of judgment. The Lord GOD (H136, H3069) establishes the state of being fat as a key distinction for His intervention, promising to personally judge between the two groups Ezekiel 34:20.
- Symbol of Division: The fat and lean cattle are symbolic of divisions among God's people. The term highlights a disparity that has necessitated divine arbitration, reflecting God's promise to "judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways" Ezekiel 18:30.
- God as the Arbiter: The use of bᵉrîy underscores God's role as the one who sees and acts upon the conditions of His people. He is the one who steps in to "judge the fatherless, plead for the widow" Isaiah 1:17 and bring righteousness.
In summary, while H1274 bᵉrîy is a rare word with a simple definition of fat, its singular use in scripture gives it significant theological importance. It functions as a crucial descriptor in a metaphor for a divided people, prompting a declaration of judgment directly from God. It powerfully illustrates how a basic physical attribute can symbolize a deeper spiritual or social condition that requires divine intervention.
TRV