a primitive root; to debar, i.e. from marriage; stay.
Transliteration:ʻâgan
Pronunciation:aw-gan'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew root `{{H5702}}`, עָגַן (ʻâgan), is identified as a primitive root with a core semantic range encompassing "to debar" or "to stay." The provided definition specifically highlights its application in the context of marriage, signifying a state of being prevented or restricted from entering into marital union. This implies a cessation of progress, a fixed position, or an enforced halt, particularly within a social or relational sphere. The nuance of "stay" suggests either a passive state of remaining in place or an active restraint, often imposed by circumstances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root `{{H5702}}` (ʻâgan) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, making its singular occurrence highly significant for its interpretation. This sole instance is found in [[Ruth 1:13]].
In [[Ruth 1:13]], Naomi, speaking to her daughters-in-law Orpah and Ruth, poses a rhetorical question: "would you therefore wait for them till they were grown? would you therefore debar yourselves from having husbands?" (KJV). The form used is the Hiphil stem, הֵעָגֵן (heʻagen), which here functions reflexively, meaning "to restrain oneself" or "to be debarred." Naomi is illustrating the bleak prospects awaiting her daughters-in-law if they were to remain with her, given that she had no more sons who could potentially grow up to fulfill the levirate marriage obligation. The phrase "debar yourselves from having husbands" (הֵעָגֵן מֵאִישׁ) vividly portrays a future without marital security, progeny, or social standing, directly linking the word to its definition of preventing marriage. The context underscores the profound vulnerability of widows in ancient Israel and the societal importance of marriage for women's well-being and the continuation of family lines.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its singular occurrence, direct lexical cognates for `{{H5702}}` are not readily apparent. However, its conceptual domain connects it to several important biblical themes and words:
* **Waiting/Delaying:** The idea of "staying" or "waiting" for an outcome, even if futile, resonates with words like `{{H3176}}` (יָחַל, *yaḥal*, to wait, hope) or `{{H4102}}` (מָהַהּ, *mahah*, to delay).
* **Restriction/Prohibition:** The sense of being "debarred" or constrained aligns with concepts of limitation or being bound, though not necessarily through a direct linguistic link.
* **Widowhood & Childlessness:** The immediate context of [[Ruth 1:13]] places `{{H5702}}` within the profound social and economic challenges faced by widows (`{{H490}}`, אַלְמָנָה, *’almanah*) and the barren (`{{H6125}}`, עֲקָרָה, *‘aqarah*), for whom marriage and progeny were crucial for survival and identity.
* **Levirate Marriage:** The underlying societal institution that makes the "debarring from marriage" so critical is the levirate marriage (`{{H2993}}`, יִבּוּם, *yibbum*), a means of preserving the deceased husband's lineage and providing for his widow.
### Theological Significance
Despite its rarity, the single appearance of `{{H5702}}` (ʻâgan) carries significant theological weight within the book of Ruth. It serves as a stark articulation of the human predicament and vulnerability that sets the stage for divine intervention and redemption.
1. **Human Desperation:** The word powerfully conveys the depth of Naomi's perceived hopelessness and the dire circumstances facing her and her daughters-in-law. Being "debarred from marriage" for these women meant not just personal loneliness, but a loss of social standing, economic security, and the continuation of their family lines, which was paramount in ancient Israelite society.
2. **The Need for a Redeemer:** The state of being ʻâgan highlights the desperate need for a kinsman-redeemer (גֹּאֵל, *go'el*, `{{H1350}}`). It is precisely this state of being cut off and vulnerable that Boaz's redemptive act addresses, transforming a situation of debarment into one of restoration, provision, and the continuation of the lineage that would eventually lead to David and ultimately to the Messiah.
3. **God's Overcoming Provision:** The use of ʻâgan underscores that the "debarring" described by Naomi is not God's final word. While human circumstances can lead to states of profound limitation and despair, the narrative of Ruth demonstrates God's sovereign hand working through faithful individuals (Ruth, Boaz) to overcome such barriers, bringing blessing and fulfilling His covenant promises even in seemingly impossible situations.
### Summary
The Hebrew root `{{H5702}}`, עָגַן (ʻâgan), though appearing only once in the biblical text, profoundly signifies "to debar" or "to stay," specifically in the context of preventing marriage. Its unique occurrence in [[Ruth 1:13]] illuminates the severe social and economic plight of widows in ancient Israel, who faced a future without security or progeny. Naomi's use of the term underscores the perceived hopelessness of being "debarred from husbands," a consequence of her inability to provide future levirate spouses. Theologically, ʻâgan serves as a poignant backdrop, articulating the human desperation and vulnerability that necessitated divine intervention. It highlights the crucial role of the kinsman-redeemer, Boaz, whose actions ultimately reverse this state of debarment, demonstrating God's faithful provision and ability to bring restoration and blessing even in the face of profound human limitation.
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