### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word עוּר (ʻûwr, `{{H5783}}`) is a primitive root primarily signifying "to be bare" or "to be made naked." Its core meaning conveys a state of being uncovered, exposed, or stripped of covering. While the root עוּר (`{{H5782}}`) more commonly denotes "to rouse" or "to awaken," this specific entry, `{{H5783}}`, is distinct and focuses on the concept of bareness or denudation. The semantic range extends beyond mere physical nakedness to encompass states of vulnerability, readiness, or even desolation, depending on the context. It implies the removal of something that previously provided concealment, protection, or adornment, thereby revealing an underlying state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The usage of עוּר (`{{H5783}}`) in the sense of "to be bare" or "made naked" is exceptionally rare in the Hebrew Bible, appearing in this specific meaning only once.
* **[[Habakkuk 3:9]]**: "Your bow was made quite bare; the arrows were ordained for the oath. Selah. You split the earth with rivers." (ESV)
* In this poetic and highly descriptive passage, the phrase "your bow was made quite bare" (עָרְיָה תֵעוֹר קַשְׁתֶּךָ, *ʻāryāh tēʻôr qaštēkā*) refers to God's bow being drawn or uncovered, ready for action. It does not imply literal nakedness in the human sense, but rather the removal of its covering or sheath, making it exposed and prepared for battle. This imagery depicts the divine warrior's readiness and formidable power in intervening on behalf of His people. The "bareness" here signifies a state of active preparation and revealed strength, rather than vulnerability or shame. The context is one of divine judgment and salvation, where God's instruments are fully revealed and deployed.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "bareness" or "nakedness" in the Hebrew Bible is often explored through various lexical and thematic connections:
* עָרָה (ʻārâh, `{{H6168}}`): A verb meaning "to make bare," "to uncover," "to empty," or "to pour out." This root shares a strong semantic connection with `{{H5783}}`, often implying exposure or desolation, as seen in passages describing cities being laid waste or individuals being stripped.
* עֵירֹם (ʻêrōm, `{{H6174}}`): A noun meaning "nakedness" or "naked." This is the more common term for literal human nakedness, particularly in contexts of shame (e.g., [[Genesis 3:7]], [[Exodus 32:25]]).
* כָּסָה (kāsāh, `{{H3680}}`): The antonym, meaning "to cover," "to conceal," or "to clothe." The contrast between being covered and being bare is fundamental to biblical anthropology and theology, especially concerning sin and shame.
* בּוּשׁ (bûsh, `{{H954}}`): To be ashamed. Nakedness, particularly in a state of sin or judgment, frequently leads to shame.
* Concepts of exposure, vulnerability, desolation, and divine readiness are all intertwined with the idea of being "bare" or "uncovered."
### Theological Significance
Though עוּר (`{{H5783}}`) is rare, its singular occurrence in [[Habakkuk 3:9]] carries profound theological weight.
1. **Divine Readiness and Power:** The "bareness" of God's bow signifies His active and immediate preparation for divine intervention. It underscores His omnipotence and unwavering resolve to execute His purposes, whether in judgment or salvation. The image conveys a God who is not passive but poised for decisive action, His instruments fully revealed and ready for deployment.
2. **Revelation of Divine Attributes:** When God's "bow is made bare," it is a revelation of His justice, strength, and faithfulness. It speaks to a God who does not hide His power but unveils it for the world to see, particularly in times of crisis or covenant fulfillment.
3. **Vulnerability and Shame (by contrast):** While this specific usage in Habakkuk points to divine power, the broader biblical concept of "nakedness" often relates to human vulnerability and the shame of sin (e.g., Adam and Eve after the Fall). The contrast highlights the unique nature of divine "bareness" as power, versus human "nakedness" as a sign of fallenness and need for covering.
4. **Judgment and Deliverance:** In the context of Habakkuk, God's "bare bow" is aimed at the wicked but ultimately serves to deliver His people. It points to the dual nature of divine action: judgment for the unrighteous and salvation for the righteous.
### Summary
The Hebrew word עוּר (`{{H5783}}`) is a primitive root meaning "to be bare" or "to be made naked." Its occurrence is exceedingly rare, appearing notably in [[Habakkuk 3:9]] where it describes God's "bow made quite bare," signifying its readiness and exposure for divine action. This single, powerful image conveys God's active preparation, formidable power, and unwavering resolve in executing His purposes of judgment and salvation. While "nakedness" often denotes human shame or vulnerability in other biblical contexts, the "bareness" of God's bow uniquely emphasizes His revealed strength and readiness, offering a profound theological insight into the nature of divine intervention.
TRV