### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yaʻărâh**, represented by `{{H3295}}`, has a dual meaning derived from nature, signifying both **forest** and **(honey-) comb**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. The definition itself suggests a link between these meanings, as honey was often hived in trees within a forest or copse of bushes.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two uses of `{{H3295}}` illustrate its distinct meanings in different biblical contexts. In [[1 Samuel 14:27]], it refers to a **honeycomb**. Jonathan, unaware of his father's oath forbidding the people from eating, dips his **rod** `{{H4294}}` into the **honeycomb** `{{H3295}}` and is physically refreshed. In [[Psalms 29:9]], the word means **forests**. Here, the powerful **voice** `{{H6963}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` "discovereth the **forests**," stripping them bare in a display of divine might over creation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **yaʻărâh** appears:
* `{{H1706}}` **dᵉbash** (honey): This word is used in conjunction with `{{H3295}}` in [[1 Samuel 14:27]] to specify a **honeycomb**. It is frequently associated with the blessing of a "land flowing with milk and **honey**" [[Exodus 3:8]].
* `{{H2834}}` **châsaph** (make bare, uncover): This verb describes the action performed on the **forests** `{{H3295}}` in [[Psalms 29:9]]. The voice of the LORD strips the forests bare, demonstrating His power.
* `{{H6963}}` **qôwl** (voice or sound): In [[Psalms 29:9]], it is the **voice** of the LORD that has a dramatic effect on the natural world, including the **hinds** `{{H355}}` and the **forests** `{{H3295}}`. This same word is central to the call to **obey** `{{H8085}}` the LORD [[1 Samuel 15:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3295}}` is rooted in its depiction of God's relationship with the natural world.
* **Divine Power over Creation:** In [[Psalms 29:9]], the **forests** `{{H3295}}` being stripped bare by the **voice** `{{H6963}}` of the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` serves as a testament to His immense power. This display of might over nature is contrasted with the glory spoken of Him in His **temple** `{{H1964}}`.
* **God's Provision in Nature:** The **honeycomb** `{{H3295}}` in [[1 Samuel 14:27]] acts as a source of immediate, life-giving sustenance. This reflects the broader theme of **honey** `{{H1706}}` as a symbol of the richness and blessing of the land God provides for His people.
### Summary
In summary, **yaʻărâh** `{{H3295}}` is a concise word that encapsulates a duality within nature. Though it appears only twice, it vividly portrays the natural world as both a theater for God's awesome power in the form of a **forest** and as a source of His gracious provision in the form of a **honeycomb**. It shows how the same natural realm can reveal God’s might and His sustenance.
TRV