The Hebrew word bârîyʼ, represented by H1277, describes something that is fatted or plump. It appears 13 times across 13 unique verses. Its meaning extends to concepts of being well-fed, firm, plenteous, or rank, often indicating abundance and health.
In the biblical narrative, H1277 is frequently used to describe physical appearance and provisions. A prominent example is in Pharaoh's dream, where he sees seven "fatfleshed" kine Genesis 41:2 and seven "rank" ears of corn Genesis 41:5, symbolizing years of plenty. It is also used to describe individuals, such as Eglon, king of Moab, who was a "very fat man" Judges 3:17, and Daniel and his companions, whose countenances became "fatter in flesh" than others Daniel 1:15. The term also applies to animals prepared for consumption, like the ten "fat" oxen for King Solomon's provisions 1 Kings 4:23.
Several related words help to frame the meaning of H1277:
- H1851 daq (lean(-fleshed)): This word serves as a direct antonym, used to describe the "thin" ears Genesis 41:7 and "leanfleshed" kine Genesis 41:4 that devoured the healthy ones in Pharaoh's dream.
- H1320 bâsâr (flesh): This term is often paired with H1277 to emphasize physical substance, as in "fatfleshed" Genesis 41:18 or "fatter in flesh" Daniel 1:15, linking plumpness directly to the body.
- H8082 shâmên (fat): This word appears alongside H1277 to describe abundance, where a portion is described as "fat" H8082 and meat as "plenteous" H1277, highlighting a state of richness Habakkuk 1:16.
The word H1277 carries significant figurative weight, often representing concepts of prosperity, judgment, and physical well-being.
- Symbol of Blessing and Abundance: In Pharaoh's dream, the "fat" kine and "rank" ears represent divine provision and years of prosperity Genesis 41:4-5. The health of Daniel and his friends, who became "fatter" on a simple diet, is shown as a sign of divine favor Daniel 1:15.
- Indicator of Corruption and Neglect: The word is used negatively to describe corrupt leaders. A wicked shepherd will "eat the flesh of the fat" Zechariah 11:16, and evil shepherds "kill them that are fed" but neglect the flock Ezekiel 34:3. The prosperity of the wicked is described as having their meat be "plenteous" Habakkuk 1:16.
- Measure of Physical Strength: The term can denote physical form and power. In Psalms, the strength of the wicked is described as "firm" H1277, indicating they have no struggles in their death Psalms 73:4.
In summary, H1277 provides a rich vocabulary for describing more than just physical weight. It functions as a powerful symbol in scripture, representing divine blessing, prosperity, and health, as seen in Pharaoh's dreams and the story of Daniel. Conversely, it can also signify worldly excess, corruption, and the exploitation of the vulnerable by wicked leaders. The word illustrates how a physical attribute can convey deep spiritual and moral conditions.
TRV