### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâqar**, represented by `{{H6131}}`, is a primitive root that signifies forceful removal and incapacitation. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses**. Its definitions include to **pluck up** (especially by the roots), to **hamstring** (hough), and figuratively, to exterminate or **dig down**. The word consistently conveys an action of permanent uprooting or disabling.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{H6131}}` is used in several distinct contexts. Poetically, it describes the cycles of life under God's sovereignty, where there is "a time to plant, and a time to **pluck up** that which is planted" [[Ecclesiastes 3:2]]. In a historical curse, it refers to an act of destructive anger, where Simeon and Levi "in their selfwill they **digged down** a wall" [[Genesis 49:6]]. The word is also used prophetically to announce judgment, as in the declaration that "Ekron shall be **rooted up**" [[Zephaniah 2:4]]. In a military sense, it describes the specific command to hamstring enemy horses, rendering them useless for war, as when David **houghed** the chariot horses of his defeated enemies ([[2 Samuel 8:4]], [[1 Chronicles 18:4]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the theme of removal and destruction associated with `{{H6131}}`:
* `{{H5193}}` **nâṭaʻ** (to plant): This word serves as a direct antonym to **ʻâqar**. It is used in parallel opposition in [[Ecclesiastes 3:2]], contrasting the act of establishing with the act of uprooting.
* `{{H1644}}` **gârash** (to drive out): This term is used alongside `{{H6131}}` in the prophecy against the Philistine cities, where some are "driven out" while Ekron is "rooted up" [[Zephaniah 2:4]], showing a shared theme of forceful expulsion and judgment.
* `{{H8313}}` **sâraph** (to burn): This word is directly paired with **ʻâqar** in military commands. The LORD instructed Joshua to **hough** the enemy's horses and **burn** their chariots with fire [[Joshua 11:6]], an order which Joshua carried out completely [[Joshua 11:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6131}}` is significant, highlighting God's authority over nations and the natural order.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is an expression of God's judgment against nations. In [[Zephaniah 2:4]], the "rooting up" of Ekron is a prophetic act of divine retribution for its wickedness.
* **Military Obedience:** God's command to Joshua to **hough** the enemy's horses [[Joshua 11:6]] was a test of obedience and a lesson in trusting God for victory rather than captured military assets like horses and chariots.
* **God's Sovereignty:** Its use in [[Ecclesiastes 3:2]] frames the act of "plucking up" not as random destruction, but as part of a divinely appointed time and purpose, demonstrating God's ultimate control over life and death, growth and decay.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6131}}` is a powerful verb that illustrates complete and final removal. Whether used to describe the agricultural act of uprooting a plant, the military tactic of disabling an enemy's cavalry, or the divine judgment of rooting up a city, **ʻâqar** consistently points to a decisive action that brings something to a permanent end. It serves as a stark reminder of God's sovereignty in both judgment and the ordained cycles of the world.
TRV