### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻêyrôm**, represented by `{{H5903}}`, refers to **nudity** or **nakedness**. It appears 10 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. While it denotes literal physical exposure, it also carries significant symbolic weight, representing core concepts of shame, vulnerability, divine judgment, and the moral call to compassion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5903}}` marks a pivotal moment in human history. Its first appearance is in Genesis, where Adam and Eve realize they are **naked** after disobeying God, prompting them to sew coverings for themselves [[Genesis 3:7]] and hide in fear [[Genesis 3:10]]. The term is also used metaphorically to describe the state of Jerusalem, first as a vulnerable infant found **naked** and bare ([[Ezekiel 16:7]], [[Ezekiel 16:22]]), and later as a punishment where she is stripped **naked** for her sins and idolatry ([[Ezekiel 16:39]], [[Ezekiel 23:29]]). This state of **nakedness** is listed as a curse for disobedience [[Deuteronomy 28:48]], while the act of covering the **naked** is a key attribute of a righteous person ([[Ezekiel 18:7]], [[Ezekiel 18:16]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to define the scope of nakedness and its implications:
* `{{H6181}}` **ʻeryâh** (bare, naked, quite): This term is frequently paired with `ʻêyrôm` to emphasize a state of complete exposure and helplessness, as seen in the description "naked **and bare**" ([[Ezekiel 16:7]], [[Ezekiel 23:29]]).
* `{{H6172}}` **ʻervâh** (nakedness, shame, unclean-ness): A related term for nudity that strongly implies disgrace or blemish. In Ezekiel, after being left naked (`ʻêyrôm`), the "**nakedness** of thy whoredoms shall be discovered" [[Ezekiel 23:29]], linking physical exposure to moral shame.
* `{{H899}}` **beged** (garment): This word for clothing stands in direct contrast to nakedness. The righteous person is defined by the act of covering the naked (`ʻêyrôm`) with a **garment** [[Ezekiel 18:7]], while judgment involves being stripped of one's clothes and left naked [[Ezekiel 16:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5903}}` is significant and multifaceted. It illustrates several core biblical themes:
* **The Fall and Human Shame:** The realization of being **naked** is the first consequence of sin recorded after the fall, introducing fear and shame into the human condition ([[Genesis 3:7]], [[Genesis 3:10]]).
* **Divine Judgment:** Nakedness is a powerful metaphor for divine judgment. To be stripped **naked** is to have all honor, protection, and status removed as a consequence of sin and covenant-breaking ([[Deuteronomy 28:48]], [[Ezekiel 16:39]]).
* **Vulnerability and Dependence:** The image of being found **naked** and bare is used to depict Israel's origins, highlighting its complete dependence on God for covering, life, and provision [[Ezekiel 16:22]].
* **Righteousness as Compassion:** In contrast to judgment, covering the **naked** is presented as a fundamental work of righteousness and a tangible expression of godliness ([[Ezekiel 18:7]], [[Ezekiel 18:16]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5903}}` is far more than a simple descriptor of physical state. It is a theologically rich term that traces the human condition from the shame of the fall [[Genesis 3:7]] to the call for righteousness [[Ezekiel 18:7]]. It powerfully illustrates the themes of vulnerability, the severe consequences of sin in the form of judgment and exposure [[Ezekiel 23:29]], and the moral imperative to care for those in need.
TRV