(Aramaic) corresponding to עֶרְוָה; nakedness, i.e. (figuratively) impoverishment; dishonor.
Transliteration:ʻarvâh
Pronunciation:ar-vaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic term עַרְוָה (ʻarvâh), Strong's `{{H6173}}`, serves as a direct cognate to the more frequently occurring Hebrew word עֶרְוָה (`{{H6172}}`), sharing the same fundamental semantic range. At its core, `{{H6173}}` denotes "nakedness," signifying a state of being unclothed or exposed. This primary meaning extends metaphorically to encompass states of vulnerability, destitution, and profound dishonor.
The concept of "nakedness" in the ancient Near East, and particularly within the biblical worldview, transcends mere physical unclothedness. It often implies a lack of covering, which can symbolize a loss of protection, dignity, or societal standing. When extended to "impoverishment," it speaks to a state of extreme lack, where one is stripped of resources and security. The further extension to "dishonor" highlights the shame and disgrace associated with such exposure or destitution, particularly when it pertains to moral or social transgression. Thus, `{{H6173}}` encapsulates a spectrum from literal physical exposure to figurative spiritual and social degradation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is noteworthy that the Aramaic lemma `{{H6173}}` (עַרְוָה) does not appear in the canonical Aramaic portions of the Hebrew Bible (i.e., in the books of Ezra or Daniel). Its inclusion in lexicons as an Aramaic entry stems from its direct linguistic correspondence and shared root with the Hebrew `{{H6172}}`. Therefore, a contextual analysis of `{{H6173}}` must necessarily draw upon the broader biblical understanding of its Hebrew counterpart and the concepts it represents.
The Hebrew `{{H6172}}` occurs frequently and provides a rich tapestry for understanding the nuances of "nakedness," "shame," and "dishonor." For instance, in [[Genesis 3:7]] and [[Genesis 3:10-11]], nakedness immediately follows the Fall, symbolizing a loss of innocence, a new awareness of shame, and separation from God. The command in [[Exodus 20:26]] against ascending steps to an altar lest one's "nakedness" be exposed underscores the sanctity of worship and the avoidance of any form of desecration. Furthermore, the extensive legislation in [[Leviticus 18]] concerning "uncovering nakedness" (a euphemism for forbidden sexual relations) vividly portrays nakedness as a profound violation, an act of defilement that brings severe dishonor upon individuals and the community. This usage highlights the moral and relational dimensions of the term, extending beyond mere physical exposure to encompass acts that violate the sanctity of familial and communal bonds.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary and most direct related word to `{{H6173}}` is the Hebrew `{{H6172}}` (עֶרְוָה), which carries the same core meanings of nakedness, shame, and indecency. Understanding `{{H6173}}` is largely dependent on the semantic field of `{{H6172}}`.
Other related concepts and terms include:
* **Shame/Disgrace:** Hebrew terms like בֹּשֶׁת (`{{H954}}`) and חֶרְפָּה (`{{H2781}}`) frequently accompany or are implied by the state of nakedness. Shame is the emotional response to exposure, while disgrace is the public manifestation of dishonor.
* **Exposure/Vulnerability:** The root idea of being uncovered inherently speaks to a lack of protection, whether physical, social, or spiritual. This vulnerability can lead to harm or exploitation.
* **Impoverishment/Destitution:** While often literal, this can also refer to a spiritual or moral barrenness, a state of having nothing of value.
* **Defilement/Pollution:** Particularly in the context of [[Leviticus 18]], "nakedness" is inextricably linked with ritual and moral impurity, rendering one defiled before God and the community.
* **Covering/Clothing:** The antithesis to nakedness. From God's provision of tunics of skin in [[Genesis 3:21]] to the elaborate priestly garments, covering symbolizes protection, dignity, righteousness, and atonement.
### Theological Significance
Though `{{H6173}}` itself does not appear in the canonical Aramaic texts, its conceptual weight, inherited from its Hebrew counterpart, is profoundly significant for biblical theology.
1. **The Fall and Loss of Innocence:** The awareness of nakedness post-Fall ([[Genesis 3:7]], [[Genesis 3:10-11]]) marks humanity's transition from innocent communion with God to a state of shame, guilt, and self-consciousness. It signifies a profound spiritual impoverishment and dishonor resulting from sin.
2. **Sin as Exposure and Defilement:** The use of "nakedness" as a euphemism for sexual sin in Levitical law ([[Leviticus 18:6-19]]) highlights that sin is not merely a transgression but an act that exposes one's moral depravity, bringing defilement and dishonor. It reveals the vulnerability of human relationships when divine boundaries are violated.
3. **Divine Provision and Atonement:** In stark contrast to human nakedness and shame, God Himself provides covering. The animal skins in Eden ([[Genesis 3:21]]) foreshadow the necessity of sacrifice for atonement. This theme culminates in the New Testament understanding of Christ's righteousness as the ultimate covering for our spiritual nakedness ([[Revelation 3:18]]), allowing us to stand unashamed before God.
4. **Vulnerability and Trust:** The concept of nakedness also speaks to human vulnerability and the need for divine protection. To be "naked" before God can be an act of complete surrender and trust, acknowledging one's utter dependence on Him. Conversely, it can also signify judgment, where one's hidden sins are exposed.
### Summary
The Aramaic term עַרְוָה (`{{H6173}}`) is a linguistic cognate to the Hebrew `{{H6172}}`, carrying the core meanings of "nakedness," "impoverishment," and "dishonor." While not directly attested in the canonical Biblical Aramaic texts, its significance is derived from the rich theological tapestry woven by its Hebrew counterpart. It fundamentally speaks to a state of being uncovered, vulnerable, and shamed, often as a consequence of sin. From the primal shame of the Fall in Eden to the profound defilement of illicit sexual acts, `{{H6173}}` and its conceptual relatives underscore humanity's spiritual nakedness before a holy God. Ultimately, it points to the divine provision of covering and righteousness, epitomized in Christ, as the means by which humanity's deepest shame and dishonor are addressed and overcome.
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