### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **kᵉrês**, represented by `{{H3770}}`, refers to the **belly** or paunch. It appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Derived from a root suggesting something that swells out, its singular use in scripture paints a vivid picture of violent consumption and the insatiable greed of an empire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H3770}}` is used metaphorically to describe the complete devastation of Jerusalem by its conqueror. The prophet Jeremiah personifies the city, which laments that Nebuchadrezzar, the king of Babylon, has devoured it, crushed it, and swallowed it up like a great dragon. The verse states he "hath filled his **belly** with my delicates, he hath cast me out" [[Jeremiah 51:34]]. This powerful imagery portrays Babylon's gluttonous plundering and the totality of Israel's ruin, having been consumed and then discarded as an empty vessel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only context in [[Jeremiah 51:34]] highlight the theme of destructive consumption:
* `{{H1104}}` **bâlaʻ** (to make away with (specifically by swallowing); generally, to destroy): This word emphasizes the finality of the action, as Babylon is said to have "swallowed up" Jerusalem. It is also used to describe the wicked devouring the righteous [[Habakkuk 1:13]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat (literally or figuratively)): This is the initial act of destruction, where Nebuchadrezzar "hath devoured" Jerusalem, initiating the process of its ruin [[Jeremiah 51:34]].
* `{{H8577}}` **tannîyn** (a marine or land monster, i.e. sea-serpent or jackal): This term elevates Nebuchadrezzar from a mere king to a monstrous, chaotic force, comparing him to a "dragon" that consumes its prey [[Jeremiah 51:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3770}}` is concentrated in its powerful metaphorical use.
* **Symbol of Violent Conquest:** The filling of the "belly" `{{H3770}}` symbolizes the brutal and complete nature of Babylon's conquest. Nebuchadrezzar is depicted not just as a victor but as a monstrous consumer, gorging himself on the "delicates" `{{H5730}}` of Jerusalem [[Jeremiah 51:34]].
* **The Insatiable Greed of an Empire:** The verse portrays Babylon's motive as all-consuming greed. The empire, acting like a dragon `{{H8577}}`, swallows `{{H1104}}` and crushes `{{H2000}}` its victim to satisfy its own appetite, leaving Jerusalem an "empty" `{{H7385}}` vessel `{{H3627}}`.
* **Basis for Divine Judgment:** This graphic depiction of Jerusalem's suffering, being devoured to fill Babylon's belly, serves as a divine indictment against the arrogant empire and a justification for God's subsequent judgment upon it.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H3770}}` is a rare word, its single appearance is exceptionally powerful. It moves beyond a simple anatomical term to become a potent symbol of voracious conquest and imperial greed. The image of Nebuchadrezzar filling his **belly** with Jerusalem's wealth encapsulates the profound sense of violation and desolation experienced by the people of Judah, providing a stark justification for Babylon's eventual downfall.
TRV