### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÔrêb**, represented by `{{H6159}}`, refers to **Oreb**, the name of a Midianite prince and the cliff where he was slain. It appears **7 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is primarily associated with the narrative of Israel's victory over the Midianites under the leadership of Gideon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6159}}` is central to a key military event in the book of Judges. **Oreb** was one of **two** `{{H8147}}` **princes** `{{H8269}}` of the Midianites `{{H4080}}` who were captured and **slain** `{{H2026}}` by the Israelites. His death is specifically located "upon the **rock** `{{H6697}}` **Oreb**," a place that took his name after the event [[Judges 7:25]]. Afterward, the **heads** `{{H7218}}` of **Oreb** `{{H6159}}` and Zeeb were brought to **Gideon** `{{H1439}}` [[Judges 7:25]]. This victory is remembered as a significant moment, referenced later as "the slaughter of Midian at the rock of **Oreb**" [[Isaiah 10:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the story of Oreb:
* `{{H2062}}` **Zᵉʼêb** (Zeeb, a Midianitish prince): Zeeb was the other Midianite prince captured and killed alongside Oreb. The two are consistently mentioned together as examples of defeated enemies [[Judges 8:3]].
* `{{H1439}}` **Gidʻôwn** (Gideon, an Israelite): The Israelite warrior and judge who led the campaign against the Midianites. He received the heads of **Oreb** `{{H6159}}` and Zeeb after their capture [[Judges 7:25]].
* `{{H4080}}` **Midyân** (Midian, Midianite): The nation to which Oreb belonged. His defeat was part of a larger victory over the **Midianites** `{{H4080}}` [[Judges 7:25]].
* `{{H6697}}` **tsûwr** (a rock or boulder): This word identifies the specific location where Oreb was executed, which became a memorial to the event [[Judges 7:25]].
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (to smite with deadly intent; kill, slay): This verb describes the fate of Oreb at the rock named for him [[Judges 7:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6159}}` is tied to the event it represents, which serves as a powerful illustration of divine justice and deliverance.
* **Divine Judgment:** The death of Oreb is not portrayed as a mere human victory but as a divine act. Gideon deflects praise by stating, "**God** `{{H430}}` hath delivered into your **hands** `{{H3027}}` the princes of Midian, **Oreb** `{{H6159}}` and Zeeb" [[Judges 8:3]].
* **A Model for Future Deliverance:** The event becomes a historical benchmark for God's power. In a prophecy against an oppressor, the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` of **hosts** `{{H6635}}` promises to **stir up** `{{H5782}}` a **scourge** `{{H7752}}` "according to the slaughter of Midian at the rock of **Oreb**" [[Isaiah 10:26]], using it as a pattern for future judgment.
* **Imprecatory Symbol:** Oreb's fate is invoked in prayer as a desired outcome for the wicked. A psalmist asks God to make the enemy's **nobles** `{{H5081}}` "like **Oreb** `{{H6159}}`, and like Zeeb `{{H2062}}`" [[Psalms 83:11]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻÔrêb** `{{H6159}}` is more than a proper name; it is a symbol of defeated opposition and divine power. It marks a specific Midianite prince, the location of his death, and a pivotal moment in Israel's history. The story of Oreb serves as a lasting biblical testimony to God's judgment on His enemies and His ability to deliver His people, a theme that echoes in both prophecy and prayer.
TRV