### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâzar**, represented by `{{H247}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to belt; bind (compass) about, gird (up, with)**. It appears 16 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible, often conveying a sense of being equipped, prepared, or endowed with strength for a specific purpose or action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H247}}` carries several key applications. It frequently describes being divinely equipped with strength for battle, as when the psalmist declares, "It is God that girdeth `{{H247}}` me with strength `{{H2428}}`" [[Psalms 18:32]], and "For thou hast girded `{{H247}}` me with strength `{{H2428}}` unto the battle" [[Psalms 18:39]]. The term is also used as a command to prepare for a divine commission or confrontation, such as when God tells Jeremiah to "gird up `{{H247}}` thy loins, and arise" [[Jeremiah 1:17]] or when He commands Job, "Gird up `{{H247}}` now thy loins like a man" [[Job 38:3]]. Metaphorically, it can signify a profound transformation, as in God having "put off my sackcloth, and girded `{{H247}}` me with gladness" [[Psalms 30:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being girded:
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (strength): This word, denoting valor and force, is frequently paired with `{{H247}}` to describe the nature of the empowerment being given. For example, those who stumbled are "girded `{{H247}}` with strength `{{H2428}}`" [[1 Samuel 2:4]].
* `{{H232}}` **ʼêzôwr** (girdle): This noun is the physical object used for girding. The connection is seen in the description of Elijah as a man "girt `{{H247}}` with a girdle `{{H232}}` of leather" [[2 Kings 1:8]].
* `{{H2865}}` **châthath** (dismay): This term is often set in contrast to the command to gird oneself. The instruction to "gird up `{{H247}}` thy loins" is immediately followed by "be not dismayed `{{H2865}}`" [[Jeremiah 1:17]], suggesting that being girded is an antidote to fear and confusion.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H247}}` is centered on divine provision and human readiness.
* **Divine Empowerment:** The act of being girded by God is a symbol of receiving His strength and capability. This divine endowment enables individuals to face battles and overcome obstacles that would be impossible in their own power ([[Psalms 18:39]], [[2 Samuel 22:40]]).
* **Preparation for a Divine Commission:** The command to "gird up thy loins" is a call to a state of readiness and alertness. It signifies preparing oneself to receive and act upon a divine word, as seen with both Jeremiah and Job ([[Jeremiah 1:17]], [[Job 40:7]]).
* **God's Sovereign Majesty:** The scriptures also depict God girding Himself. The LORD is "clothed with strength `{{H5797}}`, wherewith he hath girded `{{H247}}` himself," an act associated with the establishment of the world [[Psalms 93:1]]. This demonstrates that His power and authority are inherent to His being.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H247}}` represents far more than the simple physical act of fastening a belt. It is a powerful biblical concept signifying preparation, empowerment, and transformation. Whether it is God girding a person with strength, an individual girding themselves for a divine command, or God Himself being girded with majesty, the word consistently points to a readiness for action rooted in divine power.
TRV