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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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