### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yârêb**, represented by `{{H3377}}`, is a symbolical name for **Assyria**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on a root meaning "he will contend," the name is used to characterize a powerful, adversarial king or nation to whom Israel wrongly turns for aid.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3377}}` is found exclusively in the book of Hosea to condemn Israel's unfaithfulness. When Ephraim and Judah experienced sickness and wounds, they did not turn to God but instead **sent** `{{H7971}}` for help from king **Jareb**, who was ultimately unable to **heal** `{{H7495}}` or **cure** `{{H1455}}` them [[Hosea 5:13]]. This reliance on a foreign power is portrayed as a source of national humiliation, where a **present** `{{H4503}}` is **carried** `{{H2986}}` to king **Jareb** in **Assyria** `{{H804}}`, leading only to shame for Israel [[Hosea 10:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role of king Jareb:
* `{{H804}}` **'Ashshûwr** (Assyria): This is the nation that king Jareb symbolizes. In turning to him, Israel was seeking an alliance with **Assyria** `{{H804}}`, a regional power that would eventually be an instrument of judgment against them [[Hosea 10:6]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title is always used with Jareb, identifying him as a figure of earthly authority. Israel's appeal to a foreign **king** `{{H4428}}` stands in stark contrast to their covenant relationship with the LORD, the true **King** of Israel [[Isaiah 44:6]].
* `{{H7495}}` **râphâʼ** (to cure, heal): This word highlights the powerlessness of king Jareb. Despite Israel's appeal, he could not **heal** `{{H7495}}` their wounds, a power that scripture attributes to the LORD, who promises to **heal** the diseases of His people [[Exodus 15:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3377}}` is centered on the theme of misplaced trust.
* **Futility of Human Alliances:** The figure of king Jareb illustrates the foolishness of relying on human strength. Israel's decision to seek help from a "contending" king rather than from God is shown to be a futile act that provides no deliverance [[Hosea 5:13]].
* **Consequences of Unfaithfulness:** Turning to king Jareb is presented as an act of spiritual adultery. This unfaithfulness does not bring security but instead results in national shame and disgrace, proving their "own counsel" to be foolish [[Hosea 10:6]].
* **Prophetic Warning:** The name serves as a warning against seeking solutions from the world's systems. King Jareb's inability to **heal** `{{H7495}}` or **cure** `{{H1455}}` underscores the biblical principle that true restoration and healing for God's people come only from Him.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3377}}` functions as a powerful prophetic symbol. While appearing only twice, **Yârêb** encapsulates the theme of Israel's disastrous reliance on foreign powers instead of God. The name, meaning "he will contend," ironically describes a king who is unable to successfully contend on Israel's behalf, serving as a timeless scriptural warning about the ultimate failure of placing faith in anyone or anything other than the LORD.
TRV