### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÂr**, represented by `{{H6144}}`, is used to identify **Ar**, a specific place in **Moab** `{{H4124}}`. Its base definition is simply **a city**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently referring to this particular Moabite location.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6144}}` is consistently used to name a key city within the territory of **Moab** `{{H4124}}`. Its significance is highlighted in prophecies of judgment, as Isaiah foretells a time when **Ar** of **Moab** will be **laid waste** `{{H7703}}` and brought to silence `{{H1820}}` in the night `{{H3915}}` [[Isaiah 15:1]]. It is also depicted as being consumed by a **fire** `{{H784}}` that comes from **Heshbon** `{{H2809}}` [[Numbers 21:28]]. Conversely, the city is also identified as a protected territory given by the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` to the children of **Lot** `{{H3876}}` as a **possession** `{{H3425}}` [[Deuteronomy 2:9]]. It is situated on the **border** `{{H1366}}` of **Moab**, and the Israelites were to **pass over** `{{H5674}}` through it on their journey ([[Numbers 21:15]], [[Deuteronomy 2:18]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context surrounding Ar:
* `{{H7151}}` **qiryâh** (city): This word for **city** is used in the description of the destructive flame coming from the **city** of **Sihon** `{{H5511}}` that consumed Ar [[Numbers 21:28]]. It provides a broader context for urban settlements in the region.
* `{{H6696}}` **tsûwr** (distress, besiege): This term is used in God's command to Israel not to **distress** the Moabites in Ar, setting the city apart as a protected inheritance [[Deuteronomy 2:9]]. It highlights the military context surrounding the interactions with Moab.
* `{{H3425}}` **yᵉrushshâh** (possession): This word underscores Ar's status as a divine grant. God states he will not give Israel the land as a **possession**, because he has already given Ar to the children of **Lot** `{{H3876}}` for a **possession** [[Deuteronomy 2:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6144}}` is significant in several areas:
* **Divine Sovereignty over Nations:** The story of `{{H6144}}` demonstrates that **God's** `{{H430}}` authority extends beyond Israel. He explicitly gives **Ar** to the children of **Lot** `{{H3876}}` as a **possession** `{{H3425}}`, establishing national boundaries according to His will [[Deuteronomy 2:9]].
* **Subject of Prophetic Judgment:** **Ar** is named in prophecies of judgment against **Moab** `{{H4124}}`. Its eventual destruction, being **laid waste** `{{H7703}}` and consumed by **fire** `{{H784}}`, serves as a testament to God's role as the judge of all the **earth** `{{H776}}`, holding even foreign cities accountable ([[Isaiah 15:1]], [[Numbers 21:28]]).
* **A Test of Israel's Obedience:** The command for Israel not to **contend** `{{H1624}}` with the Moabites for **Ar** highlights a key theological principle. Israel's right to their own land did not give them license to conquer any territory they wished; they were required to respect the inheritance the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` had allocated to others [[Deuteronomy 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6144}}` is more than just a place name; it is a focal point for understanding God's sovereign dealings with nations beyond Israel. As a city of **Moab** `{{H4124}}`, **Ar** illustrates the principles of divinely appointed inheritance, prophetic judgment, and the importance of respecting God-given boundaries. Its narrative arc from a protected possession to a city destined for ruin encapsulates a significant aspect of Old Testament theology concerning God's rule over all peoples.
TRV