### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻârôwm**, represented by `{{H6174}}`, describes a state of being **nude, either partially or totally; naked**. It appears **16 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible. The term signifies a fundamental state of exposure, ranging from pre-fall innocence to profound vulnerability and judgment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its earliest usage, `{{H6174}}` describes the original state of humanity, where the man `{{H120}}` and his wife `{{H802}}` were both **naked** and felt no shame [[Genesis 2:25]]. The word also represents ultimate human vulnerability and dependence on God `{{H3068}}`, as declared by Job who came **naked** from his mother's `{{H517}}` womb `{{H990}}` and will return **naked** [[Job 1:21]]. In a prophetic context, it becomes a powerful sign of judgment. The LORD `{{H3068}}` commanded Isaiah `{{H3470}}` to walk **naked** and barefoot as a sign of the coming captivity of Egypt `{{H4714}}` and Ethiopia `{{H3568}}` [[Isaiah 20:2-3]]. This imagery of being stripped **naked** is also used to depict judgment against unfaithfulness [[Hosea 2:3]] and the desperation of a defeated warrior [[Amos 2:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of being naked:
* `{{H6172}}` **ʻervâh** (nakedness, shame, unclean(-ness)): This word is often used to describe the disgrace or shame associated with nakedness. For example, the captives of Egypt `{{H4714}}` would be led away with their buttocks uncovered to the **shame** of Egypt [[Isaiah 20:4]].
* `{{H3182}}` **yâchêph** (barefoot, being unshod): This term is frequently used alongside `{{H6174}}` to emphasize a complete state of destitution and humiliation, as when Isaiah `{{H3470}}` walked naked and **barefoot** [[Isaiah 20:2]].
* `{{H954}}` **bûwsh** (to be ashamed): This word is key to understanding the state of innocence. The man `{{H120}}` and his wife `{{H802}}` were naked but were not **ashamed** [[Genesis 2:25]], highlighting a condition before the knowledge of evil.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6174}}` is significant and multifaceted.
* **Original Innocence:** Before sin, being **naked** was a state of purity and transparency, without the presence of shame [[Genesis 2:25]].
* **Symbol of Judgment:** God uses the state of being **naked** as a prophetic sign to demonstrate the impending humiliation, defeat, and captivity of nations like Egypt `{{H4714}}` and Ethiopia `{{H3568}}` [[Isaiah 20:4]]. It is also a metaphor for divine punishment [[Hosea 2:3]].
* **Human Frailty:** The state of being **naked** serves as a reminder of humanity's humble origins and end. Job's statement, "Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and **naked** shall I return thither," encapsulates a life stripped of all earthly possessions before God [[Job 1:21]].
* **Call to Righteous Action:** The plight of the **naked** is a test of character. The righteous are commanded to cover the **naked** [[Isaiah 58:7]], while the wicked are condemned for stripping them [[Job 22:6]] and leaving them without covering `{{H3682}}` in the cold `{{H7135}}` [[Job 24:7]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻârôwm** `{{H6174}}` conveys much more than a lack of clothing. It serves as a powerful symbol across Scripture, representing the spectrum of human experience. It encompasses the innocence of creation [[Genesis 2:25]], the raw vulnerability of human existence [[Job 1:21]], the stark shame of divine judgment [[Isaiah 20:4]], and the moral imperative to show compassion to the needy [[Isaiah 58:7]].
TRV