### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻâraq**, represented by `{{H6207}}`, is a primitive root with a dual meaning related to intense suffering. Its definition encompasses concepts of gnawing pain, as a **sinew**, and desperate movement, as in **fleeing**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, both in the book of Job, underscoring its association with profound affliction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H6207}}` in scripture highlight different facets of suffering. In one context, it describes a deep, internal, and physical agony, where Job cries out that his **sinews** take no rest while his bones are pierced in the night [[Job 30:17]]. In its other use, it depicts an external act of desperation, describing those who, because of want and famine, are **fleeing** into the desolate and waste wilderness [[Job 30:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the suffering associated with **ʻâraq**:
* `{{H2639}}` **cheçer** (want): This word for "lack; hence, destitution; poverty, want" establishes the dire circumstances that lead to the act of "fleeing" in [[Job 30:3]].
* `{{H3720}}` **kâphân** (famine): Defined as "hunger (as making to stoop with emptiness and pain)," this term appears alongside want as a primary motivator for fleeing into the wilderness [[Job 30:3]].
* `{{H6106}}` **ʻetsem** (bone): This word is used in parallel with "sinews" in Job's description of his physical torment, where his **bones** are pierced, causing his sinews to have no rest [[Job 30:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6207}}` is concentrated in its powerful depiction of the depths of human suffering within the book of Job.
* **Internal and External Anguish:** The word uniquely bridges the gap between internal torment and external response. It is both the unrelenting physical pain of "sinews" that take no rest [[Job 30:17]] and the desperate action of "fleeing" from starvation [[Job 30:3]].
* **The State of Utter Desolation:** The context for `{{H6207}}` is one of complete destitution. People are driven by want and famine to flee into a desolate wilderness, a physical manifestation of their inner state of ruin.
* **Unrelenting Affliction:** In the context of Job's suffering, the use of `{{H6207}}` as "sinews" that "take no rest" paints a picture of pain that is not only sharp but also constant and gnawing, allowing no peace or relief.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6207}}` is a potent and specific term used exclusively to articulate extreme suffering. While rare, its dual application as both a restless "sinew" and the act of "fleeing" provides a comprehensive portrait of affliction. It shows how profound hardship affects a person internally, through ceaseless pain, and externally, through desperate actions driven by want and desolation.
TRV