from עָרַר; naked, i.e. (figuratively) poor; destitute. See also עֲרוֹעֵר.
Transliteration:ʻarʻâr
Pronunciation:ar-awr'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H6199 עַרעָר (ʻarʻâr) derives from the root עָרַר (ʻarar), which carries the core meaning of being laid bare, stripped, or made desolate. Consequently, עַרעָר extends this meaning to describe a state of being "naked" in a figurative sense, leading to the translations "poor" or "destitute." It signifies an extreme lack of resources, covering, or protection, emphasizing vulnerability and deprivation. The word conveys a sense of barrenness, exposure, and a complete absence of flourishing or sustenance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H6199 עַרעָר appears primarily in a powerful metaphorical context in the book of Jeremiah:
* **[[Jeremiah 17:6]]**: "For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited."
* Here, עַרעָר is translated as "heath" or "desert shrub." This particular plant is characterized by its exposure, barrenness, and ability to survive in desolate, parched environments. In this verse, it serves as a stark metaphor for the individual who trusts in human strength and wisdom rather than in the Lord. Such a person is depicted as spiritually "naked" and barren, unable to perceive or receive true good, dwelling in a state of spiritual desolation. The imagery powerfully contrasts with the flourishing tree planted by water described immediately after ([[Jeremiah 17:8]]), which represents the blessed state of those who trust in God.
The singular occurrence of H6199 in this profound passage highlights its specific use to convey the spiritual consequences of misplaced trust, emphasizing a state of utter spiritual destitution and lack of vitality.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root עָרַר (ʻarar):** This is the foundational root from which H6199 is derived. It signifies "to be bare," "to be stripped," or "to be made desolate." Other words from this root would share a semantic connection related to exposure or emptiness.
* **עֶרְיָה (ʻeryah) `{{H6172}}`:** Meaning "nakedness" or "naked," this term refers to the physical state of being unclothed, providing a literal basis for the metaphorical "nakedness" implied by עַרעָר.
* **עֲרוֹעֵר (ʻărôʻêr) `{{H6177}}`:** This related term, explicitly referenced in the base definition of H6199, also stems from עָרַר. It often refers to a "ruined place" or a state of being "stripped bare" or "destitute." While H6199 focuses on the *state* of an individual (or plant as metaphor), `{{H6177}}` can refer to a *place* of desolation, reinforcing the broader theme of barrenness and deprivation.
* **Poverty and Destitution:** The concept of עַרעָר aligns with broader biblical themes concerning the poor and needy, and the spiritual dangers of being cut off from divine provision and blessing.
* **Trust vs. Self-Reliance:** In its primary context ([[Jeremiah 17:6]]), עַרעָר stands in stark contrast to the flourishing life described in [[Jeremiah 17:8]], underscoring the vital distinction between trusting in human strength and relying on the Lord.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H6199 עַרעָר is profound, particularly as conveyed in [[Jeremiah 17:6]]:
* **Consequence of Misplaced Trust:** The term serves as a potent image for the spiritual barrenness and destitution that results from placing one's trust in human strength, wisdom, or resources rather than in the Lord. It is a dire warning against self-reliance and turning away from the true source of life.
* **Spiritual Vulnerability and Exposure:** To be עַרעָר is to be spiritually exposed, without covering, protection, or sustenance from God. It speaks to a soul that is withered, unable to receive divine blessing or produce spiritual fruit.
* **Contrast with Divine Provision:** The state of being עַרעָר stands in stark opposition to the flourishing, well-watered life promised to those who trust in Yahweh ([[Psalm 1:3]], [[Jeremiah 17:8]]). God is portrayed as the ultimate provider and protector, and estrangement from Him inevitably leads to a state of spiritual nakedness and lack.
* **Spiritual Judgment:** While not an explicit act of divine judgment in [[Jeremiah 17:6]], the עַרעָר state describes the inherent, self-inflicted consequence of a particular spiritual posture, reflecting a profound spiritual judgment that arises from turning away from the life-giving God.
### Summary
The Hebrew word H6199 עַרעָר (ʻarʻâr), derived from the root עָרַר (to be bare or stripped), signifies a state of being "naked," "poor," or "destitute." Its most prominent biblical appearance in [[Jeremiah 17:6]] employs it metaphorically to describe the spiritual barrenness of those who trust in human strength rather than in the Lord. Like a desert shrub in a parched land, such individuals are depicted as exposed, without true spiritual life or sustenance, unable to perceive or receive good. This term powerfully underscores the theological truth that genuine flourishing and protection are found only in reliance upon God, and that turning away from Him inevitably leads to a desolate, spiritually impoverished existence, contrasting sharply with the abundant life found in Him. The concept is closely related to other terms signifying nakedness, desolation, and the profound consequences of spiritual estrangement.
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