a primitive root; properly, to irradiate (or shoot forth beams), i.e. to rise (as the sun); specifically, to appear (as a symptom of leprosy); arise, rise (up), as soon as it is up.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zârach**, represented by `{{H2224}}`, is a primitive root meaning to irradiate or shoot forth beams. It is primarily used to describe the rising of the sun, but also the appearance of light, glory, or even symptoms of disease. It appears **18 times** across **17 unique verses**, often illustrating a dawning or sudden manifestation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2224}}` is most frequently used to describe the literal rising of the sun, marking the start of a new day or a significant event. This can be seen in the daily cycle described in Ecclesiastes, where "The sun also ariseth, and the sun goeth down" [[Ecclesiastes 1:5]]. It also marks pivotal moments, such as when the sun "rose" upon Jacob after his struggle at Penuel [[Genesis 32:31]]. Figuratively, the word is used for the dawning of divine light and glory, as in Isaiah's prophecy: "the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee" [[Isaiah 60:1]]. In a unique medical context, it describes the outbreak of leprosy that "rose up" on King Uzziah's forehead as a sign of judgment [[2 Chronicles 26:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the concept of dawning and appearance:
* `{{H8121}}` **shemesh** (sun): This word for the sun is the object that most often performs the action of **zârach**. It appears in contexts describing the literal sunrise [[2 Samuel 23:4]] and prophetically as the "Sun of righteousness" that will **arise** [[Malachi 4:2]].
* `{{H216}}` **'ôwr** (light): As the result of something rising or shining, **'ôwr** is often paired with **zârach**. For the righteous, **light** `{{H216}}` "ariseth in the darkness" [[Psalms 112:4]], and for the obedient, their "light rise in obscurity" [[Isaiah 58:10]].
* `{{H3519}}` **kâbôwd** (glory): This term for splendor and honor is used to describe the divine presence. The Lord's **glory** is what is said to have "risen" upon His people, promising a new era of divine favor and visibility ([[Isaiah 60:1]], [[Isaiah 60:2]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2224}}` is seen in its progression from the natural to the supernatural.
* **Natural Order and Revelation:** The word is grounded in the dependable cycle of creation, where the sun rises each **morning** `{{H1242}}` to give **light** `{{H216}}` [[2 Samuel 23:4]]. This establishes a pattern of reliability and order.
* **The Dawn of Divine Presence:** **Zârach** is used to describe God's own glorious appearing. In His covenant with Israel, the LORD "rose up from Seir" and "shined forth from mount Paran" [[Deuteronomy 33:2]]. In Isaiah, the LORD Himself promises to **arise** upon His people [[Isaiah 60:2]].
* **Hope and Righteousness:** The concept of rising light becomes a powerful metaphor for salvation and hope. It is promised that a "Sun of righteousness" will **arise** with healing [[Malachi 4:2]], and that for the upright, **light** `{{H216}}` "ariseth in the darkness" [[Psalms 112:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2224}}` is a dynamic word that captures the essence of a new dawning. While its foundation is the literal rising of the sun, it expands to become a profound theological term describing the manifestation of God's **glory** `{{H3519}}`, the arrival of righteousness, and the ultimate hope of healing and salvation. It illustrates how a simple, natural event can powerfully symbolize the breaking forth of divine light into a world of darkness.
TRV