### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **'ebyôwn**, represented by `{{H34}}`, describes one who is **destitute** and **in want**. Stemming from a sense of deep need, it translates to **beggar, needy,** or **poor (man)**. This term appears 61 times across 58 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting the significant attention scripture gives to those in impoverished circumstances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H34}}` is frequently used to highlight the vulnerable state of individuals and to underscore God's concern for them. It often appears in contexts describing the suffering caused by oppression, as seen in the "sighing of the **needy**" due to "oppression" [[Psalms 12:5]] and those who "crush the **needy**" [[Amos 4:1]]. The term also emphasizes God's redemptive power, showing Him "raising up" the **beggar** from the dunghill [[1 Samuel 2:8]] and delivering the **needy** when they cry out [[Psalms 72:12]]. Furthermore, `{{H34}}` features in calls for justice and compassion, such as the command to "judge the cause of the poor and **needy**" [[Jeremiah 22:16]] and to "strengthen the hand of the poor and **needy**" [[Ezekiel 16:49]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of destitution and the appropriate response to it:
* `{{H1800}}` **dal** (poor (man)): This term often appears in parallel with `{{H34}}` to describe individuals in a state of weakness or poverty, emphasizing their vulnerable condition. For example, both terms are used when God "raisieth up the poor" `{{H1800}}` and "lifteth up the **beggar**" `{{H34}}` [[1 Samuel 2:8]].
* `{{H6041}}` **'aniy** (afflicted, lowly, needy, poor): Similar to `{{H1800}}`, this word frequently accompanies `{{H34}}` to paint a fuller picture of the impoverished, highlighting their depressed circumstances. This is evident in the phrase "poor" `{{H6041}}` and "**needy**" `{{H34}}` who "seek water" [[Isaiah 41:17]].
* `{{H6231}}` **'âshaq** (oppress, defraud): This word directly defines the unjust actions often taken against the `{{H34}}`, emphasizing the suffering caused by those who "oppress the poor" `{{H1800}}` and "crush the **needy**" [[Amos 4:1]].
* `{{H6403}}` **pâlaṭ** (deliver): This term illustrates the divine response to the plight of the `{{H34}}`, signifying God's role in rescuing those in dire straits. For instance, God is called the "deliverer" `{{H6403}}` of the one who is "poor" `{{H6041}}` and "**needy**" `{{H34}}` [[Psalms 40:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H34}}` reveals core biblical principles regarding divine justice and human responsibility:
* **God's Advocacy for the Vulnerable:** Scripture consistently portrays God as the protector and helper of the `{{H34}}`, promising to "arise" for the "sighing of the **needy**" [[Psalms 12:5]] and "maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the right of the **poor**" [[Psalms 140:12]].
* **Command for Compassion and Justice:** The presence of `{{H34}}` underscores a strong ethical imperative for humanity, particularly leaders, to "judge righteously" and not to "oppress" the **needy** ([[Proverbs 31:9]], [[Deuteronomy 24:14]]). Mercy shown to the **poor** is equated with honoring God [[Proverbs 14:31]].
* **Hope in Affliction:** Despite their desperate state, the `{{H34}}` are not abandoned; God promises to meet their needs, satisfying "her **poor** with bread" [[Psalms 132:15]] and strengthening them in distress [[Isaiah 25:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H34}}` is a multifaceted term that not only describes a state of financial and emotional destitution but also serves as a crucial theological marker. It highlights the pervasive issue of poverty and oppression in ancient Israel, while simultaneously demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to the **needy**. The term calls believers to emulate divine compassion and justice, ensuring that the marginalized are not forgotten but are instead cared for and protected.
TRV