from גָּרַם; a bone (as the skeleton of the body); hence, self, i.e. (figuratively) very; bone, strong, top.
Transliteration:gerem
Pronunciation:gheh'-rem
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H1634 (גֶּרֶם, *gerem*) fundamentally denotes a "bone," specifically emphasizing its role as the skeleton or the core, foundational structure of a body. It derives from the root H1633 (גָּרַם, *garam*), which carries the sense of "to cut off," "to make bare," or "to gnaw." This etymological connection underscores the idea of *gerem* as the essential, stripped-down, and enduring part. Beyond its literal meaning, *gerem* extends figuratively to signify "self" (in the sense of one's very being or essence), or to denote something "very" intense, "strong," or at the "top" – highlighting its solidity, resilience, or prominence. Thus, its semantic range encompasses physical structure, inherent strength, and the core essence of a thing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word H1634 (*gerem*) appears infrequently in the Hebrew Bible, primarily in contexts that underscore its core meaning of strength and solidity.
1. **[[Job 40:18]]**: "His bones are tubes of bronze, his limbs like bars of iron." Here, *gerem* (in its plural form, גַּרְמָיו, *garmav*) is used to describe the skeletal structure of Behemoth, a creature presented as a testament to God's immense creative power. The comparison of Behemoth's bones to "tubes of bronze" and "bars of iron" vividly portrays their extraordinary strength, rigidity, and unyielding nature. This usage directly aligns with the "strong" aspect of *gerem*'s definition, emphasizing an almost indestructible physical foundation.
2. **[[Proverbs 25:15]]**: "Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a soft tongue can break a bone." In this proverb, *gerem* is employed literally as "bone," serving as a metaphor for something exceedingly hard, resistant, and difficult to overcome. The wisdom expressed highlights the astonishing power of gentle, persistent persuasion ("a soft tongue") to achieve what force or rigidity cannot. The "bone" here symbolizes stubbornness, unyielding resistance, or deeply entrenched positions, which can paradoxically be softened and overcome by patience and gentle speech. This instance, while literal, powerfully illustrates the inherent hardness and resilience associated with *gerem*.
### Related Words & Concepts
1. **H1633 (גָּרַם, *garam*)**: The root verb from which *gerem* is derived, meaning "to cut off," "to make bare," or "to gnaw." This connection reinforces the idea of *gerem* as the fundamental, bare, and essential structure that remains when everything else is removed.
2. **H6106 (עֶצֶם, *etsem*)**: This is the more common Hebrew word for "bone," but it carries a broader semantic range, often extending to mean "self," "body," or "substance" (e.g., "bone of my bone" in [[Genesis 2:23]]). While both *gerem* and *etsem* denote "bone," *gerem* seems to particularly emphasize the *strength*, *hardness*, and *structural integrity* of the bone, whereas *etsem* often highlights the *identity* or *essence* represented by the bone as the core of a being.
3. **Concepts of Strength and Foundation**: *Gerem* is intrinsically linked to ideas of strength, rigidity, and being a foundational element. It represents that which is solid, enduring, and difficult to break, whether literally or figuratively.
### Theological Significance
While H1634 (*gerem*) has limited occurrences, its usage contributes to several theological insights:
1. **Divine Power in Creation**: In [[Job 40:18]], the description of Behemoth's *gerem* as bronze and iron serves as a powerful testament to the Creator's immense power and intricate design. The strength of God's creatures reflects His own omnipotence and the marvelous complexity of His handiwork. It invites awe and reverence for a God who fashions such unyielding structures.
2. **The Nature of Wisdom and Persuasion**: [[Proverbs 25:15]] uses *gerem* to illustrate a profound principle of divine wisdom. The "breaking of a bone" by a "soft tongue" speaks to the subversive, yet ultimately powerful, nature of patience, gentleness, and truth. It suggests that even the most hardened hearts or unyielding opposition can be softened by persistent, gentle wisdom, echoing principles found in the meekness of Christ and the power of the Spirit. This highlights that true strength is not always overt force, but can be found in subtle, persistent influence.
3. **Resilience and Vulnerability**: The "bone" as a symbol of strength and resilience also implicitly points to the paradox of creation—something incredibly robust yet capable of being affected or broken. This can be applied to human existence, which, while endowed with strength and endurance, remains ultimately dependent on divine wisdom and grace.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H1634 (גֶּרֶם, *gerem*) primarily denotes a "bone," emphasizing its inherent *strength*, *rigidity*, and *foundational* quality. Derived from a root signifying "to make bare," it points to the essential, enduring structure. Its rare but significant occurrences in [[Job 40:18]] and [[Proverbs 25:15]] illustrate this core meaning: in Job, depicting the formidable power of God's creation; and in Proverbs, serving as a metaphor for stubborn resistance overcome by gentle wisdom. Though distinct from the more common H6106 (*etsem*), *gerem* contributes to the biblical understanding of physical might, resilience, and the intricate design of life, subtly underscoring the wisdom and power of the Creator and the unexpected efficacy of soft persuasion.
TRV