feminine passive participle of עֲנַמֶּלֶךְ in the sense of a bargain or exchange; something given as security, i.e. (literally) a token (of safety) or (metaphorically) a bondsman; pledge, surety.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻărubbâh**, represented by `{{H6161}}`, signifies something given as **security**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning a bargain or exchange, its definition encompasses both a literal **token** of safety and a metaphorical role as a **bondsman**. It is used to convey the concepts of a **pledge** or **surety**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H6161}}` appears in two distinct contexts. In [[1 Samuel 17:18]], it is used in a literal sense when Jesse instructs David to **take** `{{H3947}}` a **pledge** `{{H6161}}` from his brethren `{{H251}}` as a token of their welfare `{{H7965}}`. Conversely, [[Proverbs 17:18]] uses the term metaphorically to warn against foolishness, describing a man `{{H120}}` void `{{H2638}}` of understanding `{{H3820}}` who becomes **surety** `{{H6161}}` for his friend `{{H7453}}`, a financially binding act.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of security and exchange:
* `{{H6148}}` **ʻârab**: As the primitive root, it means to intermix or, technically, to give to be **security**. It describes the action of engaging oneself or giving a **pledge**.
* `{{H8628}}` **tâqaʻ**: This word means to slap the hands together and, by implication, to become bondsman by handclasping. It illustrates the physical act of agreement that accompanies becoming a **surety** [[Proverbs 17:18]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach**: A primitive root meaning to **take** or receive. It is used in [[1 Samuel 17:18]] to describe the act of receiving the **pledge** as proof of safety.
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H6161}}` carries important weight regarding personal responsibility and assurance.
* **Financial Prudence:** Its use as **surety** in Proverbs serves as a strong caution. The act of becoming **surety** `{{H6161}}` is a serious obligation, and entering into it without understanding `{{H3820}}` is depicted as a significant error in judgment [[Proverbs 17:18]].
* **Token of Assurance:** The literal **pledge** `{{H6161}}` in 1 Samuel acts as a tangible confirmation of safety. It is not a financial instrument but a personal token to confirm that one's brethren `{{H251}}` are well, providing peace of mind [[1 Samuel 17:18]].
* **Binding Agreements:** The context of becoming **surety** involves a formal action, striking hands `{{H3709}}`, which solidifies a promise. This underscores how a pledge or guarantee was a witnessed and binding commitment made in the presence `{{H6440}}` of another.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻărubbâh** `{{H6161}}` is a focused term for a **pledge** or **surety**. Though rare, its uses are clear, illustrating both a metaphorical financial guarantee and a literal token of assurance. It highlights biblical principles of wisdom in agreements and the importance of tangible proof in providing security, whether for a debt or for a loved one's well-being.
TRV