### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻărâbôwn**, represented by `{{H6162}}`, refers to a **pawn** or **pledge** given as security. It is derived from a root word meaning exchange. It appears only **3 times** in the Bible, all within **3 unique verses**, highlighting its specific application in the context of securing a promise.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical narrative using `{{H6162}}` is the account of Judah and Tamar in Genesis. When Judah promises to send Tamar a young goat `{{H1423}}` `{{H5795}}` from the flock `{{H6629}}`, she demands security for his word, asking, "Wilt thou give `{{H5414}}` me a **pledge** `{{H6162}}`, till thou send `{{H7971}}` it?" [[Genesis 38:17]]. The items given as the **pledge** `{{H6162}}`—Judah's signet `{{H2368}}`, bracelets `{{H6616}}`, and staff `{{H4294}}`—are items of significant personal identity [[Genesis 38:18]]. The story concludes with Judah sending his friend `{{H7453}}` to retrieve the **pledge** `{{H6162}}`, underscoring its value and the binding nature of the agreement [[Genesis 38:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of a pledge and the objects used as security:
* `{{H2368}}` **chôwthâm** (seal, signet): One of the items Judah gave as his pledge, representing his personal identity and authority [[Genesis 38:18]].
* `{{H6616}}` **pâthîyl** (twine; bracelet): The cord or "bracelets" given alongside the signet as part of the pledge, an item of personal value [[Genesis 38:18]].
* `{{H4294}}` **maṭṭeh** (rod, staff, tribe): The staff from Judah's hand `{{H3027}}` was the final piece of the pledge, another symbol of his identity and standing [[Genesis 38:18]].
* `{{H5414}}` **nâthan** (to give): This verb is central to the transaction, as Tamar asks Judah to **give** her a pledge, and he **gave** it to her [[Genesis 38:17-18]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take, receive): This word describes the intended recovery of the pledge, when Judah sends his friend to **receive** it from the woman's hand [[Genesis 38:20]].
### Theological Significance
The concept of `{{H6162}}` carries significant weight within its narrative context, illustrating key principles:
* **Guarantee of a Promise:** The primary role of the **pledge** is to serve as a tangible security deposit, ensuring the fulfillment of a spoken promise. Tamar holds it until Judah sends the promised payment [[Genesis 38:17]].
* **Binding by Identity:** The items given as the **pledge** are not generic but are extensions of Judah's own identity—his seal `{{H2368}}` and staff `{{H4294}}`. This ties the guarantee directly to his name and honor, making the commitment deeply personal [[Genesis 38:18]].
* **Proof and Accountability:** The pledge ultimately serves as irrefutable proof. Judah's attempt to recover his items shows his acknowledgment of the debt, and the items themselves hold him accountable for his actions [[Genesis 38:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6162}}` is a highly specific term for a pawn or pledge that, while used infrequently, provides a powerful illustration of securing a commitment. In its only biblical context, it is not merely a financial deposit but a guarantee backed by items of deep personal identity. The story demonstrates how a **pledge** functions as a binding guarantee, holding an individual accountable to their word through the deposit of their own reputation and authority.