### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻârêb**, represented by `{{H6156}}`, is defined as **pleasant** or **sweet**. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Though rare, its usage presents a sharp contrast, describing both a genuinely delightful sound and a deceptively appealing falsehood.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two biblical occurrences of `{{H6156}}` establish its dual-sided meaning. In Song of Solomon, it is used to describe the beloved’s voice as **sweet**, a quality that is desirable and associated with a “comely” countenance [[Song of Solomon 2:14]]. In contrast, Proverbs uses the word to issue a warning: “Bread of deceit is **sweet** to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel” [[Proverbs 20:17]]. This illustrates that what is initially pleasant can lead to a bitter end.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **ʻârêb** is found:
* `{{H5000}}` **nâʼveh** (comely): Meaning "suitable, or beautiful," this word is used in parallel with **sweet** in Song of Solomon to describe the beloved's countenance [[Song of Solomon 2:14]]. It also denotes that praise is **comely** for the upright [[Psalms 33:1]].
* `{{H6963}}` **qôwl** (voice): Defined as "a voice or sound," this is what is described as **sweet** in [[Song of Solomon 2:14]]. This word is also critical in the context of obedience to God, as in hearkening to the **voice** of the LORD [[Deuteronomy 28:1]].
* `{{H3123}}` **yôwnâh** (dove): This term for "a dove" is the object of affection whose voice is **sweet** [[Song of Solomon 2:14]]. It is also used as a term of endearment elsewhere [[Song of Solomon 5:2]] and as a symbol of mourning [[Ezekiel 7:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6156}}` lies in the distinction it forces the reader to make between different kinds of "pleasantness."
* **Authentic Delight:** In the context of love and beauty, the word signifies a true and worthy pleasantness. The **sweet** voice of the beloved in Song of Solomon is part of a cherished and righteous relationship [[Song of Solomon 2:14]].
* **Deceptive Allure:** In the context of wisdom literature, the word represents the dangerous and fleeting pleasure of sin. The initial sweetness of deceit is a trap that leads to a painful and gritty reality, highlighting the moral consequences of unrighteousness [[Proverbs 20:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6156}}` is a potent word whose meaning is defined by its context. While it simply means **pleasant** or **sweet**, its two appearances in Scripture frame a vital moral lesson. It contrasts the genuine, life-giving sweetness found in love [[Song of Solomon 2:14]] with the temporary, destructive sweetness of deceit [[Proverbs 20:17]], teaching the importance of discerning between what is truly good and what merely appears to be.
TRV