a primitive root; properly, to be (or make) bare; but used only in the derivative sense (through the idea perhaps of smoothness) to be cunning (usually in a bad sense); [idiom] very, beware, take crafty (counsel), be prudent, deal subtilly.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâram**, represented by `{{H6191}}`, is a primitive root primarily used in its derivative sense to mean **cunning, prudent, or crafty**. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. While its root meaning relates to being bare, it is used to describe a shrewdness that can be either positive (prudence) or negative (subtlety in a bad sense).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6191}}` highlights a contrast between godly wisdom and worldly scheming. In a positive light, it describes the one who is **prudent** because he regards his father's instruction and reproof [[Proverbs 15:5]]. It is also the awareness the simple gain when they see a scorner punished, learning to **beware** [[Proverbs 19:25]]. Conversely, the term is used negatively to describe the **crafty** counsel taken by enemies against God's people [[Psalms 83:3]]. It also characterizes an individual who is known to deal **very subtilly**, indicating deceptive and cunning behavior [[1 Samuel 23:22]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the dual nature of `{{H6191}}`:
* `{{H5475}}` **çôwd** (counsel): This word for a secret or consultation is used with `{{H6191}}` to describe the plots of enemies who take **crafty** counsel together [[Psalms 83:3]].
* `{{H8433}}` **tôwkêchâh** (reproof): The quality of being prudent is linked to accepting correction, as one who regards **reproof** is called **prudent** [[Proverbs 15:5]].
* `{{H6612}}` **pᵉthîy** (simple): This term for the simple or seducible stands in contrast to the prudent. The **simple** learn to **beware** (a form of prudence) by observing the consequences that befall others [[Proverbs 19:25]].
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn** (understand): Prudence is connected to understanding. A person with understanding will **understand** knowledge when reproved, just as the simple **beware** in the same context [[Proverbs 19:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6191}}` rests in its dual application. It can represent either a godly prudence or a malicious craftiness, depending on the heart of the individual.
* **Prudence as a Virtue:** In its positive sense, prudence is not an innate quality but one acquired through discipline. A person becomes **prudent** by regarding reproof [[Proverbs 15:5]], demonstrating a teachable spirit that leads to wisdom.
* **Craftiness as a Weapon:** Negatively, `{{H6191}}` is the tool of those who oppose God and His people. It is seen in the **crafty counsel** used to devise plans against them [[Psalms 83:3]] and the subtle dealings of an enemy [[1 Samuel 23:22]].
* **A Learned Awareness:** The term also describes a practical wisdom learned by observation. The simple can **beware** and become shrewd by seeing the punishment of a scorner, highlighting a path from naivete to caution [[Proverbs 19:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6191}}` is a nuanced term whose meaning is determined by its context. It is not merely cleverness, but a shrewdness that can manifest as the commendable virtue of being **prudent** or as the wicked characteristic of being **crafty** and dealing **subtilly**. Its rare usage in scripture serves to draw a sharp line between wisdom that honors God through correction and cunning that plots against His purposes.
TRV