### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻeryâh**, represented by `{{H6181}}`, denotes **nudity** or a state of being **bare** or **naked**. It appears 6 times in 6 unique verses. While its core meaning relates to physical exposure, it is often used figuratively within prophetic writings to convey concepts of vulnerability, shame, and, in one instance, the complete readiness of a weapon for action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the book of Ezekiel, `{{H6181}}` is used repeatedly to describe the condition of Jerusalem. In its youth, Jerusalem was "naked and **bare**" ([[Ezekiel 16:7]], [[Ezekiel 16:22]]), signifying a state of humble and helpless origins. Later, as a consequence of her unfaithfulness, she is stripped and left "naked and **bare**" as an act of divine judgment ([[Ezekiel 16:39]], [[Ezekiel 23:29]]). This theme of judgment and humiliation is echoed in Micah, where the inhabitants of Saphir are told they will pass away with their "shame **naked**" [[Micah 1:11]]. A distinct idiomatic use appears in Habakkuk, where God's bow is described as "made **quite** naked," indicating it is fully unsheathed and ready for use [[Habakkuk 3:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6181}}` by providing context for nakedness, its cause, and its opposite:
* `{{H5903}}` **ʻêyrôm** (nudity; naked(-ness)): This word is frequently used in parallel with `{{H6181}}` to form the descriptive phrase "naked and bare," emphasizing a state of total exposure and vulnerability [[Ezekiel 16:7]].
* `{{H6172}}` **ʻervâh** (nakedness, shame, unclean(-ness)): The base definition of `{{H6181}}` notes it is for `{{H6172}}`, linking bareness directly to concepts of disgrace. In [[Ezekiel 23:29]], the state of being "naked and bare" leads to the discovery of the "nakedness of thy whoredoms."
* `{{H6584}}` **pâshaṭ** (to strip): This verb often describes the action that results in the state of `{{H6181}}`. In [[Ezekiel 16:39]], God's judgment involves enemies who will "**strip**" Jerusalem of her clothes and leave her bare.
* `{{H899}}` **beged** (clothing; garment): As the direct opposite of nakedness, this word highlights what is lost. Righteous action includes covering the naked with a **garment** [[Ezekiel 18:7]], whereas judgment involves being stripped of one's **clothes** [[Ezekiel 16:39]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6181}}` is primarily expressed through the prophetic theme of covenant judgment.
* **Symbol of Shame and Judgment:** The state of being **bare** is a powerful metaphor for the public disgrace that follows sin. Being stripped of clothing and left exposed represents the removal of all honor, status, and divine protection as a direct result of spiritual adultery ([[Ezekiel 16:39]], [[Micah 1:11]]).
* **Reminder of Humble Origins:** Before being "adorned" by God, Israel is described as "naked and **bare**" [[Ezekiel 16:7]]. This serves as a reminder of her complete dependence on God for her life, provision, and honor.
* **Illustration of Divine Readiness:** In its unique idiomatic usage, the phrase "**quite** naked" `{{H6181}}` in [[Habakkuk 3:9]] portrays God's power as being fully unveiled and prepared for decisive action against His enemies.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6181}}` is a focused term that primarily signifies being **bare** and exposed. While appearing only a few times, it carries significant weight in prophetic literature, where it serves as a stark symbol of both the vulnerability of origins and the shame of divine judgment. Its less common idiomatic use also demonstrates how the concept of "bareness" can extend to signify a state of complete and unveiled readiness for divine warfare.
TRV