### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **maʻărôm**, represented by `{{H4636}}`, translates to **naked** or bare. It is derived from a root word meaning to strip. Its appearance in scripture is exceptionally rare, occurring only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, yet its context provides a powerful illustration of compassion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H4636}}` is found in [[2 Chronicles 28:15]]. In this account, men from Samaria who were "expressed by name" took **captives** `{{H7633}}` from Judah and demonstrated remarkable mercy. They used the spoils of war to **clothe** `{{H3847}}` all who were **naked** among the prisoners, providing them with food, drink, and anointing them before returning them to their brethren in Jericho. This singular instance highlights a state of extreme vulnerability and the subsequent act of restorative kindness.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the scene in which `{{H4636}}` appears:
* `{{H3847}}` **lâbash** (to put on a garment or clothe): This is the direct action taken to remedy the condition of being **naked** `{{H4636}}`. It is used literally to describe putting on garments [[Haggai 1:6]] and figuratively for being clothed with attributes like salvation [[Isaiah 61:10]] or strength [[Isaiah 52:1]].
* `{{H5344}}` **nâqab** (to specify, designate, pierce): In the primary verse, this word describes the men who performed the act of mercy as being "expressed by name" [[2 Chronicles 28:15]]. Its meaning can also extend to piercing or creating holes, as in a "bag with holes" [[Haggai 1:6]].
* `{{H7633}}` **shibyâh** (captives): This word identifies the people who were **naked**. It refers to those taken in exile or captivity, underscoring their powerless and degraded state before being shown mercy [[2 Chronicles 28:15]].
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H4636}}` is centered on its context of mercy and restoration.
* **Vulnerability and Compassion:** The state of being **naked** signifies total vulnerability and humiliation, particularly for **captives** `{{H7633}}`. The response to this condition becomes a powerful demonstration of compassion.
* **The Righteous Act of Clothing:** The command to **clothe** `{{H3847}}` the **naked** is a tangible act of righteousness. In [[2 Chronicles 28:15]], this act is part of a larger effort to care for the feeble and restore them to their people.
* **Restoration of Dignity:** By clothing the **naked** captives, the men of Samaria reversed the shame of defeat and restored a measure of dignity to their brethren, an act carried out by men specifically designated, or "expressed by name" `{{H5344}}`.
### Summary
In summary, though `{{H4636}}` appears only once, its meaning is profound. It represents a state of utter helplessness and shame. The scriptural context immediately pairs this word with the remedy: the act of clothing the **naked**. This single verse [[2 Chronicles 28:15]] uses **maʻărôm** to create a stark image that serves as the backdrop for an unforgettable lesson in kindness, responsibility, and the restoration of human dignity.
TRV