patronymically from עֲרוֹעֵר; an Aroerite or inhabitant of Aroer; Aroerite.
Transliteration:ʻĂrôʻêrîy
Pronunciation:ar-o-ay-ree'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H6200}}`, transliterated as *ʻĂrôʻêrîy*, functions as an ethnonym, specifically identifying an individual as an inhabitant of the city of Aroer. Its etymological root lies in the place name עֲרוֹעֵר (*ʻĂrôʻêr*), represented by `{{H6177}}`. The suffix "-iy" is a common adjectival ending in Hebrew used to denote origin, belonging, or descent, akin to the English "-ite" (e.g., "Israelite," "Moabite"). Therefore, the core meaning of `{{H6200}}` is "an Aroerite" or "one who belongs to/comes from Aroer." The semantic range is quite narrow, strictly denoting geographical affiliation rather than a particular quality or profession.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H6200}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of 1 Chronicles:
* **[[1 Chronicles 11:44]]**: "Uzzia the Ashterathite, Shama and Jeiel the sons of Hotham the Aroerite."
In this context, `{{H6200}}` is found within a detailed list of David's mighty men, a compilation that enumerates the valiant warriors and their family connections who served King David. Here, "Hotham the Aroerite" identifies the father of Shama and Jeiel, indicating their lineage and geographical origin. This inclusion underscores the meticulous record-keeping characteristic of the Chronicler's work, emphasizing the diverse origins of those who joined David's service. The mention of Aroerites in such a significant list highlights the importance of geographical identity in ancient Israelite society and the inclusion of individuals from various regions within the kingdom's elite. Aroer itself was a significant city, often mentioned in Transjordan, near the Arnon River, frequently a border town between Israelite, Moabite, or Ammonite territories.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is עֲרוֹעֵר (`{{H6177}}`), the place name Aroer itself. This city is mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament, often in contexts describing tribal territories, conquests, or border disputes (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 2:36]], [[Joshua 12:2]], [[Judges 11:26]], [[2 Samuel 24:5]]). Understanding the geographical and historical significance of Aroer enriches the understanding of an "Aroerite."
Conceptually, `{{H6200}}` belongs to the broader category of "ethnonyms" or "gentilic nouns" in the Bible. These terms are crucial for understanding:
* **Geographical Identity**: How individuals and families were identified by their place of origin.
* **Genealogy and Lineage**: The importance of tracing family roots and tribal affiliations.
* **Historical Geography**: Mapping the presence and interaction of various peoples and cities within the biblical narrative.
* **Inclusion/Exclusion**: While not directly theological, the mention of individuals from specific places can subtly inform narratives of alliance, conquest, or integration.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H6200}}` itself does not carry overt theological weight, its presence in the biblical text, particularly within the Chronicler's account, contributes to several theological themes:
* **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**: The meticulous recording of individuals from diverse geographical locations, even those from border regions like Aroer, subtly affirms God's providential oversight of all people and places. He raises up individuals from various backgrounds to fulfill His purposes, whether in the service of a king like David or in the broader narrative of salvation history.
* **Historicity and Revelation**: The precise details regarding specific individuals and their origins underscore the grounded nature of biblical revelation within real historical contexts. The biblical narrative is not abstract mythology but a recounting of God's interaction with actual people in specific places and times.
* **Community and Identity**: The identification of individuals by their place of origin reflects the ancient understanding of identity as deeply intertwined with one's community and heritage. In a broader theological sense, this can prompt reflection on the believer's identity in Christ, which transcends earthly origins while still acknowledging the unique tapestry of human experience that God weaves.
* **Inclusivity (Implicit)**: The presence of individuals from various regions within David's mighty men can be seen as a subtle precursor to the broader inclusivity of God's redemptive plan, which ultimately embraces people from "every tribe and language and people and nation" ([[Revelation 5:9]]).
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H6200}}`, *ʻĂrôʻêrîy*, is an ethnonym meaning "an Aroerite" or "an inhabitant of Aroer," derived directly from the place name `{{H6177}}` (Aroer). Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[1 Chronicles 11:44]], where it identifies Hotham, the father of two of David's mighty men, thereby highlighting their geographical origin and lineage. While not bearing explicit theological meaning in itself, the term contributes to the biblical emphasis on historical accuracy, geographical identity, and the divine use of individuals from diverse backgrounds within God's unfolding plan. It underscores the grounded reality of biblical narratives and the intricate details that attest to the historicity of God's engagement with humanity.
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