from an unused root meaning perhaps to arch; a couch (properly, with a canopy); bed(-stead), couch.
Transliteration:ʻeres
Pronunciation:eh'res
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word עֶרֶשׂ (ʻeres, `{{H6210}}`) is primarily defined as a "couch" or "bed(-stead)." The etymological root is unused, but is speculated to mean "to arch," which might suggest a structural characteristic of the bed, perhaps indicating a raised or curved frame. A notable nuance in its definition is "properly, with a canopy," which implies a more elaborate, private, or even luxurious piece of furniture than a mere sleeping mat. This suggests that ʻeres could denote a bed of some distinction, potentially associated with comfort, status, or intimacy. Its semantic range thus spans from a simple place of rest to a more significant item of furniture, carrying different connotations based on context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term עֶרֶשׂ (ʻeres) appears sparingly in the Hebrew Bible, but each instance offers profound insight into its usage:
* **[[Deuteronomy 3:11]]**: This is perhaps the most famous occurrence, describing the "bedstead" (עֶרֶשׂ בַּרְזֶל, ʻeres barzel) of Og, king of Bashan. The text specifies it was an iron bedstead, nine cubits long and four cubits wide, a colossal dimension. Here, ʻeres signifies a substantial, durable, and imposing piece of furniture, underscoring Og's formidable nature and the extraordinary scale of his possessions. It becomes a tangible relic of a powerful, yet ultimately defeated, foe.
* **[[Psalm 41:3]]**: In this lament, the psalmist expresses confidence in the Lord's care during illness: "The Lord will sustain him on his sickbed" (עַל עֶרֶשׂ דְּוָי). Here, ʻeres denotes a bed of affliction, a place of suffering and vulnerability. The context highlights God's compassionate attentiveness and support for the one who is weak and ill, transforming the bed of pain into a place of divine sustenance.
* **[[Psalm 132:3]]**: This verse records David's vow concerning the Ark of the Covenant: "Surely I will not enter the house of my tent, nor ascend to the couch of my bed" (עַל עֶרֶשׂ יְצוּעָי). Here, ʻeres is used in parallel with יְצוּעַ (yatsu'a, `{{H3326}}`, a bed or couch), emphasizing a place of personal rest and comfort. David's profound commitment not to seek personal ease until he has found a dwelling place for the Lord's presence (מִשְׁכָּנוֹת לַיהוָה) elevates the ʻeres into a symbol of personal sacrifice and dedication.
* **[[Job 7:13]]**: Job, in his deep despair, laments, "When I say, 'My bed (עַרְשִׂי) will comfort me, my couch will ease my complaint,'..." Here, ʻeres again refers to a place of rest, but one that Job desperately hopes will bring solace from his overwhelming suffering. The context underscores the depth of his distress, where even the anticipated comfort of his bed proves illusory.
* **[[Proverbs 7:16]]**: This passage describes the seductive preparations of the adulteress: "I have spread my bed (עַרְשִׂי) with coverings, with richly colored linens from Egypt." In this context, ʻeres is clearly a bed prepared for illicit sexual encounter, adorned with luxurious materials to entice. This usage highlights the association of the bed with intimacy, both legitimate and illicit, and the use of material comforts for temptation.
### Related Words & Concepts
ʻeres frequently interacts with other Hebrew terms related to sleeping, resting, and dwelling, enriching its meaning:
* **יְצוּעַ (yatsu'a, `{{H3326}}`)**: A common synonym for "bed" or "couch," often appearing in parallel with ʻeres, as seen in [[Psalm 132:3]]. While both denote a place of rest, ʻeres may imply a more substantial or specific type of bed, possibly with the canopy feature.
* **מִשְׁכָּב (mishkav, `{{H4904}}`)**: Another general term for "bed" or "couch," which can also refer to the act of lying down or sexual intercourse. mishkav is a very broad term, whereas ʻeres might suggest a more constructed or permanent bed.
* **מִטָּה (mittah, `{{H4296}}`)**: Also meaning "bed" or "couch," this word can refer to a stretcher or litter and is often used for a bed in a general sense.
* **חֹפָה (chophah, `{{H2646}}`)**: Though not directly related by root, the implied "canopy" of ʻeres connects it conceptually to words like chophah, which refers to a canopy or covering, especially in the context of a bridal chamber. This reinforces the idea of ʻeres as potentially a private or adorned sleeping arrangement.
* **Concepts of Rest and Suffering**: The use of ʻeres in contexts of illness ([[Psalm 41:3]], [[Job 7:13]]) naturally links it to broader biblical themes of human frailty, suffering, and divine compassion. Conversely, its association with comfort and luxury ([[Proverbs 7:16]]) connects it to themes of prosperity, temptation, and moral choices, particularly concerning sexual purity.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ʻeres is primarily drawn from its varied contextual applications, revealing profound truths about the human condition and God's interaction with humanity:
* **Divine Sovereignty over Human Vulnerability**: The "bed of illness" (ʻeres d'vay) in [[Psalm 41:3]] and [[Job 7:13]] poignantly highlights human susceptibility to sickness and suffering. Yet, in the Psalms, it becomes a testament to God's steadfast love (חֶסֶד, *hesed*), demonstrating His compassionate care and providential sustenance even in moments of extreme weakness. This transforms a symbol of human frailty into a witness of divine faithfulness.
* **Commitment and Self-Sacrifice**: David's solemn vow in [[Psalm 132:3]] elevates the ʻeres from a mere object of personal comfort to a symbol of profound spiritual dedication. His refusal to seek the solace of his own bed until a dwelling place for the Lord is established underscores the theological principle of prioritizing God's glory and presence above personal ease and convenience. It exemplifies a deep commitment to spiritual purpose.
* **Moral Choice and Temptation**: The luxurious ʻeres of the harlot in [[Proverbs 7:16]] serves as a stark warning against the allurements of sin and moral compromise. Here, the bed, a place inherently associated with intimacy, is perverted into a tool for deception and illicit sexual activity. This usage powerfully underscores the biblical emphasis on sexual purity and the dangers of worldly temptations, where even common objects can be twisted for unrighteous ends.
* **Symbol of Earthly Power and Divine Triumph**: Og's iron ʻeres ([[Deuteronomy 3:11]]) stands as a monumental testament to his formidable earthly power and status. However, its very mention in the context of Israel's conquest signifies the complete and decisive overthrow of this mighty king by the superior power of Yahweh. Thus, the ʻeres becomes a tangible reminder of God's absolute sovereignty over all human might and the inevitability of His triumph.
### Summary
The Hebrew word עֶרֶשׂ (ʻeres, `{{H6210}}`) denotes a "bed" or "couch," often with the implication of a more substantial or canopied structure. Its limited but impactful appearances in the Hebrew Bible demonstrate a rich semantic depth. From the colossal "iron bedstead" of the defeated giant Og, symbolizing formidable earthly power and divine triumph ([[Deuteronomy 3:11]]), to the "sickbed" where God sustains the afflicted ([[Psalm 41:3]]), ʻeres reflects both human vulnerability and divine compassion. It functions as a symbol of personal comfort willingly deferred for spiritual devotion ([[Psalm 132:3]]) and, conversely, as a locus of temptation and moral peril when prepared for illicit purposes ([[Proverbs 7:16]]). Through these varied contexts, ʻeres transcends its simple definition, serving as a potent object through which biblical authors explore profound themes of divine sovereignty, human suffering, moral choice, and unwavering spiritual commitment.
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