The Hebrew word kêrâh, represented by H3740, is a specific term for provision or a purchase. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Derived from the root כָּרָה, it specifically points to provisions that have been prepared or acquired.
The single use of H3740 occurs in a significant historical event in 2 Kings 6:23. After the prophet Elisha miraculously captures the Syrian army, he instructs the king of Israel to show them mercy. Instead of violence, the king is told to prepare a great provision for the enemy soldiers. Following this act of providing food and drink, the Syrian bands stopped raiding the land of Israel, demonstrating how an act of provision could lead to peace.
Several related words clarify the context and meaning of provision:
- H3739 kârâh (to purchase; buy, prepare): This is the root verb from which H3740 is derived. It signifies the act of preparing or acquiring something, as seen when the king "prepared great provision" 2 Kings 6:23 or when Israel was instructed to "buy water" Deuteronomy 2:6.
- H1419 gâdôwl (great): This adjective is used to describe the scale of the provision in its only biblical appearance, "great provision" 2 Kings 6:23. It emphasizes abundance and significance, and is also used to describe God's power Jeremiah 32:17 and the promise to make a great nation Genesis 12:2.
- H398 ʼâkal (to eat): This verb describes the primary purpose of the provision. The Syrian army partook of the provision when "they had eaten" 2 Kings 6:23. It can be used literally or figuratively, such as when Jeremiah eats God's words Jeremiah 15:16.
- H8354 shâthâh (to drink): Paired with eating, this completes the act of partaking in the provision. The verse states "when they had eaten and drunk" 2 Kings 6:23. This word is used throughout scripture for both physical sustenance Exodus 17:6 and celebratory feasting Nehemiah 8:10.
Though used only once, the context of H3740 carries theological weight.
- Mercy and Hospitality: The word appears in a narrative where mercy triumphs over retribution. The "great provision" is an act of hospitality extended to an enemy army, given at the command of God's prophet 2 Kings 6:23.
- Provision as an Instrument of Peace: The direct outcome of providing this meal was that "the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel" 2 Kings 6:23. This demonstrates a divine principle where generous provision can be a tool for de-escalating conflict and establishing peace.
- Obedience to a Divine Command: The preparation of the H3740 is an act of obedience by the king of Israel. It represents following God's unconventional command to nourish enemies rather than destroy them, showcasing a kingdom ethic rooted in generosity rather than force.
In summary, H3740 kêrâh is a highly specific term for provision. While its statistical footprint is minimal, its sole appearance in scripture captures a profound moment. It is not just about a meal, but about a divinely commanded act of mercy toward an enemy. It illustrates how the simple, tangible act of providing for others can serve as a powerful instrument of peace and a demonstration of God's alternative to conflict.
TRV