feminine of יַעַר, and meaning the same; {a copse of bushes; hence, a forest; hence, honey in the comb (as hived in trees)}; (honey-) comb, forest.
Transliteration:yaʻărâh
Pronunciation:yah-ar-aw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma יַעֲרָה (yaʻărâh, `{{H3295}}`) is a fascinating term, explicitly defined as the feminine form of יַעַר (ya'ar, `{{H3293}}`), carrying the same fundamental semantic range. Its primary meaning denotes a dense growth of trees and underbrush, encompassing "a copse of bushes" or, more broadly, "a forest." This refers to an uncultivated, often wild, and sometimes extensive natural environment.
A particularly insightful extension of its meaning, unique in its application, is "honey in the comb" or "honeycomb." This semantic leap is rooted in the observation that wild bees frequently construct their combs within the hollows of trees or among the dense foliage of a forest. Thus, the forest, as the natural habitat for wild bees, becomes intrinsically linked to the sweet sustenance it provides. This dual meaning highlights both the physical landscape and the specific, valuable resource found within it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The occurrences of יַעֲרָה (yaʻărâh, `{{H3295}}`) are notably concentrated within a single narrative passage in the book of 1 Samuel, where both facets of its meaning are vividly displayed.
* In [[1 Samuel 14:25]], the word appears in its primary sense of "forest": "And all the people of the land came to a forest; and there was honey on the ground." Here, the "forest" serves as a geographical location during a military campaign, a natural landscape through which the weary Israelite soldiers pass. The mention of "honey on the ground" foreshadows the word's secondary meaning.
* Immediately following, in [[1 Samuel 14:27]], יַעֲרָה shifts its meaning to "honeycomb": "But Jonathan had not heard when his father charged the people with an oath, so he put out the end of the staff that was in his hand and dipped it in the honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth, and his eyes brightened." This verse is crucial, demonstrating the word's full semantic range within a very close narrative proximity. Jonathan finds the honey within the forest, illustrating the direct connection between the environment and the resource. The honey, found in its natural comb, provides immediate strength and clarity to Jonathan, contrasting sharply with the exhaustion of the other soldiers bound by Saul's oath.
The strategic placement of these two meanings in the same chapter underscores the organic link between the forest as a natural environment and the honeycomb as a product of that environment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and foundational related word is יַעַר (ya'ar, `{{H3293}}`), the masculine counterpart from which יַעֲרָה (yaʻărâh, `{{H3295}}`) is derived, sharing the core meaning of "forest" or "wood." Understanding יַעַר provides a broader context for the biblical understanding of forested areas.
Another significant related term is דְּבַשׁ (devash, `{{H1706}}`), which simply means "honey." While דְּבַשׁ refers to the substance itself, יַעֲרָה (in its secondary meaning) refers to the structure containing the honey, often implying its wild, natural origin within the forest.
Conceptually, יַעֲרָה is linked to themes of:
* **Wilderness and Nature:** It points to uncultivated, untamed areas, often contrasting with settled or agricultural lands.
* **Provision and Sustenance:** Especially through its "honeycomb" meaning, it highlights natural resources that can provide nourishment and strength, often unexpectedly.
* **Hiddenness and Discovery:** The honey is found within the forest, suggesting that valuable resources can be discovered in unexpected or difficult places.
### Theological Significance
The dual nature of יַעֲרָה (yaʻărâh, `{{H3295}}`) in 1 Samuel 14 carries profound theological implications.
Firstly, the finding of the honeycomb in the forest can be interpreted as a powerful symbol of **Divine Provision**. In a time of war and weariness, amidst the harsh conditions imposed by Saul's rash oath, God's creation spontaneously yields a source of strength and refreshment. Jonathan's revitalized eyes after eating the honey ([[1 Samuel 14:27]]) vividly illustrate the life-giving nature of this provision, which stands in stark contrast to the exhaustion and distress of the rest of the army. It speaks to God's ability to provide sustenance even in the most challenging and unexpected circumstances.
Secondly, the word draws attention to the **Abundance and Goodness of Creation**. The forest, a natural part of God's design, is not merely a landscape but a source of life and blessing. It reminds us that the natural world is imbued with resources for humanity's well-being, reflecting the Creator's benevolent hand.
Finally, within the narrative of 1 Samuel 14, יַעֲרָה becomes a focal point for the tension between human oaths and divine will. The honey, a gift from creation, inadvertently causes Jonathan to transgress his father's oath, leading to a dramatic confrontation. This highlights themes of obedience, the consequences of rash vows, and the potential for God's intervention to protect the innocent and ensure the continuation of His purposes (as seen in the people's intervention to save Jonathan). Thus, the simple "honeycomb" becomes a pivotal element in a complex theological drama.
### Summary
The Hebrew word יַעֲרָה (yaʻărâh, `{{H3295}}`) is a feminine noun derived from יַעַר (ya'ar, `{{H3293}}`), primarily denoting a "forest" or "copse." Uniquely, it also extends to mean "honeycomb," reflecting the natural occurrence of wild honey within forested areas. Its most significant biblical appearances are in [[1 Samuel 14:25]] and [[1 Samuel 14:27]], where both meanings are powerfully illustrated within the same narrative. In this context, the "forest" serves as the setting for the discovery of the "honeycomb," which then plays a crucial role in the story of Jonathan and Saul's oath. Theologically, יַעֲרָה underscores themes of divine provision, the inherent goodness and abundance of God's creation, and its capacity to sustain life, even amidst human error and conflict.
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