### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻărâb**, represented by `{{H4627}}`, is derived from a root meaning to trade `{{H6148}}`. It refers to **traffic**, **mercantile goods**, a **market**, or **merchandise**. The term appears **9 times** across **8 unique verses**, exclusively within the book of Ezekiel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
All biblical uses of `{{H4627}}` appear in the prophecy against the commercial city-state of Tyre in Ezekiel 27. The word denotes both the bustling **market** where international trade occurs and the **merchandise** itself. For example, nations like Judah and Israel traded goods such as **wheat** of Minnith, **honey**, **oil**, and **balm** in Tyre's **market** [[Ezekiel 27:17]]. Similarly, Javan, Tubal, and Meshech traded the **persons** of men and **vessels** of brass in this central hub [[Ezekiel 27:13]]. The word is also used for the goods themselves, which are destined for destruction along with the city [[Ezekiel 27:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of commerce and trade:
* `{{H6148}}` **ʻârab** (to traffic): This is the primitive root from which **maʻărâb** is derived. It means to intermix or, technically, to traffic, and is used to describe those who **occupy** thy merchandise [[Ezekiel 27:9]].
* `{{H7402}}` **râkal** (merchant): This term describes the people who conduct business in the **market** `{{H4627}}`. They are the **merchants** who travel for the purpose of trading goods, such as those from Javan, Tubal, and Meshech [[Ezekiel 27:13]].
* `{{H5801}}` **ʻizzâbôwn** (fair, ware): This word is frequently used alongside `{{H4627}}` and refers to a trade mart or its revenue. The prophecy states that Tyre's **fairs** `{{H5801}}` and its **merchandise** `{{H4627}}` will fall into the sea [[Ezekiel 27:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4627}}` is tied to the judgment on Tyre's pride.
* **Hub of Worldly Glory:** The **market** of Tyre is portrayed as the center of global commerce, making the city replenished and very **glorious** in the midst of the seas [[Ezekiel 27:25]]. It symbolizes the pinnacle of human-achieved wealth and splendor.
* **Enrichment and Pride:** Through its vast **merchandise**, Tyre **didst enrich** the kings of the earth [[Ezekiel 27:33]], which fostered a sense of self-sufficiency and pride that invited divine judgment.
* **The Futility of Riches:** The prophecy culminates in the complete collapse of this commercial empire. The declaration that its **merchandise** and all its company shall **fall** [[Ezekiel 27:34]] serves as a stark reminder of the transient nature of worldly power and wealth.
### Summary
In summary, **maʻărâb** `{{H4627}}` is a specific term used exclusively in Ezekiel 27 to capture the essence of Tyre's commercial might. It defines both the physical **market** and the valuable **merchandise** that flowed through it. The word functions as a powerful symbol of worldly glory, economic power, and the pride that accompanies such success. Ultimately, its use in the context of Tyre's prophesied destruction underscores the biblical theme that human empires and their wealth are fleeting before the judgment of God.
TRV