### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çâmâr**, represented by `{{H5569}}`, is a descriptive term meaning **bristling, i.e. shaggy; rough**. It is a rare word, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a vivid and specific image within a prophecy of judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5569}}` is in Jeremiah's prophecy against Babylon. In a call to assemble armies, the text commands to "cause the horses to come up as the **rough** caterpillers" [[Jeremiah 51:27]]. Here, **çâmâr** is used to create a powerful simile, comparing the appearance of a vast, advancing cavalry to a swarm of shaggy or bristling caterpillars. The imagery suggests a fearsome, overwhelming, and destructive invading force, gathered at God's command.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from the context of [[Jeremiah 51:27]] illuminate the meaning of `{{H5569}}`:
* `{{H3218}}` **yeleq** (cankerworm, caterpillar): This is the noun that **çâmâr** modifies. It often refers to a devouring locust, used metaphorically for a destructive army sent by God [[Joel 1:4]].
* `{{H5483}}` **çûwç** (horse): The horses of the invading armies are likened to the "rough caterpillers." Horses frequently symbolize military power and strength in scripture [[Proverbs 21:31]].
* `{{H5251}}` **nêç** (banner, pole, sail, (en-) sign, standard): The call to war begins with the command to "Set ye up a standard," a signal used to rally troops and nations for a military campaign [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
* `{{H1471}}` **gôwy** (nation, heathen, Gentile): The prophecy explicitly calls for the gathering of nations `{{H1471}}` and kingdoms `{{H4467}}` like Ararat `{{H780}}`, Minni `{{H4508}}`, and Ashchenaz `{{H813}}` to execute judgment [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
### Theological Significance
While rare, the use of `{{H5569}}` contributes to significant theological themes within its context:
* **Divine Sovereignty in Judgment:** The word is part of a command where God musters foreign nations to act as His instrument of judgment against Babylon. This demonstrates God's ultimate authority over all kingdoms `{{H4467}}` of the earth `{{H776}}` [[Jeremiah 1:10]].
* **Imagery of an Overwhelming Force:** The "bristling" or "shaggy" nature of the caterpillars creates a fearsome image. This metaphor, used for the invading armies, portrays God's judgment not as a minor skirmish but as a terrifying, all-consuming event, similar to a locust plague [[Joel 2:25]].
* **The Call to War:** The term is embedded in a divine summons to "blow the trumpet" (`{{H8628}}`, `{{H7782}}`), "prepare the nations" (`{{H6942}}`, `{{H1471}}`), and "appoint a captain" (`{{H6485}}`, `{{H2951}}`). This emphasizes that historical events and the rise and fall of empires unfold under God's active and purposeful direction.
### Summary
In summary, **çâmâr** `{{H5569}}` is a specific and impactful adjective. Though it appears only once, its role in [[Jeremiah 51:27]] is crucial for creating a vivid and menacing picture of a divinely orchestrated invasion. It enriches the prophetic text by transforming the image of an approaching army into a formidable, bristling swarm, effectively communicating the terror and totality of the coming judgment on Babylon.
TRV