### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yârîyb**, represented by `{{H3401}}`, is derived from the verb to contend and functions as a noun or adjective for an **adversary** or someone who is **contentious**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The term literally means "he will contend" and is used to identify an opponent engaged in active strife or opposition.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H3401}}` consistently appears in contexts of conflict where a plea is made to God for intervention. David, in a psalm, asks the LORD to take up his cause against those who **strive** with him [[Psalms 35:1]]. Similarly, the prophet Jeremiah calls on the LORD to listen to the voice of those who **contend** with him [[Jeremiah 18:19]]. The word also features in God's promise of deliverance, where He declares His intention to contend with the **adversary** of His people and save them [[Isaiah 49:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of the contention associated with `{{H3401}}`:
* `{{H7378}}` **rîyb** (to contend, plead): This is the root verb from which **yârîyb** is derived. It appears alongside its derivative to describe the action of conflict, as when the LORD promises, "I will **contend** with him that **contendeth** with thee" [[Isaiah 49:25]].
* `{{H3898}}` **lâcham** (to battle, fight): This word is used in parallel with `{{H3401}}` to escalate the description of the conflict from a legal dispute to open battle, as seen in David's plea to "fight against them that **fight** against me" [[Psalms 35:1]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (the Lord): In every instance of `{{H3401}}`, **the LORD** is the one addressed or the one who acts, positioning Him as the ultimate arbiter and defender against any adversary [[Psalms 35:1]].
* `{{H3467}}` **yâshaʻ** (to be safe, save): This term reveals the purpose of God's contention. God contends with the adversary specifically to **save** His children, linking divine opposition to the enemy with the salvation of His people [[Isaiah 49:25]].
* `{{H6184}}` **ʻârîyts** (tyrannical, terrible): This describes the nature of the adversary from whom the LORD delivers his people. The prey is delivered from the **terrible** one, showing the formidable power of the opposition God overcomes [[Isaiah 49:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H3401}}` is centered on God's role as the divine defender.
* **God as Divine Advocate:** The term is frequently used in prayers that appeal to God to act as a righteous judge and champion for His people against their adversaries. David invokes the LORD to plead his case against those who strive with him [[Psalms 35:1]].
* **Promise of Divine Intervention:** The word underscores God's commitment to fighting on behalf of His people. In Isaiah, God’s promise is not just to defend, but to actively enter the conflict and contend with Israel's **adversary** himself [[Isaiah 49:25]].
* **The Nature of Opposition:** Those identified as a **yârîyb** are not merely passive enemies but active antagonists whose actions prompt a direct response from God. Jeremiah's cry for God to hearken to his contenders highlights the personal and direct nature of this opposition [[Jeremiah 18:19]].
### Summary
In summary, **yârîyb** `{{H3401}}` moves beyond a simple label for an enemy to define an active, contentious adversary. Though rare, its usage in scripture is powerful, consistently framing conflict within a theological context where God is called upon as the ultimate defender. The term serves to reinforce the assurance that God hears the cries of His servants and personally enters the struggle to contend with their adversaries and bring about salvation.
TRV