from עָשַׁר; wealth; [idiom] far (richer), riches.
Transliteration:ʻôsher
Pronunciation:o'-sher
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun עֹשֶׁר (ʻôsher, `{{H6239}}`) derives from the verb עָשַׁר (ʻāshar, `{{H6238}}`), meaning "to be rich" or "to grow rich." At its core, ʻôsher signifies "wealth," "riches," or "abundance." It primarily denotes material prosperity, tangible assets, and a state of having plentiful possessions. The definition also notes an idiomatic usage, "far (richer)," suggesting a comparative sense of greater abundance or superiority in terms of wealth. While its primary semantic range is material, the concept often carries significant spiritual and moral implications within the biblical narrative, extending beyond mere economic valuation to touch upon divine blessing, human responsibility, and potential spiritual peril.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ʻôsher appears frequently throughout the Hebrew Bible, offering varied perspectives on wealth. Often, ʻôsher is presented as a divine blessing, a sign of God's favor and covenant faithfulness, particularly in the patriarchal narratives and the Deuteronomic tradition. Abraham, for instance, is described as possessing great ʻôsher ([[Genesis 13:2]]), a testament to God's blessing upon him. Similarly, Solomon's ʻôsher and honor are granted by God as an addition to his requested wisdom ([[1 Kings 3:11-13]], [[2 Chronicles 1:11-12]]). Job's initial prosperity, characterized by immense ʻôsher, is also portrayed as a gift from the Lord ([[Job 1:3]]).
However, the biblical witness also carries strong warnings against the dangers inherent in ʻôsher. The book of Proverbs frequently cautions against the deceitfulness and fleeting nature of wealth, contrasting it with the enduring value of wisdom and righteousness ([[Proverbs 11:16]], [[Proverbs 23:5]]). It warns that trust in ʻôsher leads to ruin ([[Proverbs 11:28]]) and that ill-gotten ʻôsher brings no lasting benefit ([[Proverbs 13:11]]). Ecclesiastes further explores the vanity of ʻôsher when pursued as an ultimate end, concluding that it cannot satisfy the soul or provide ultimate meaning apart from God ([[Ecclesiastes 5:10-14]]). Even when ʻôsher is legitimately acquired, there is a constant tension between its potential as a blessing and its capacity to become an idol or a stumbling block to spiritual devotion.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of ʻôsher is illuminated by its relationship to other Hebrew terms for possessions and prosperity. הוֹן (hon, `{{H1952}}`) often refers to substance, sufficiency, or wealth in a more general sense, encompassing both material and sometimes abstract resources. רְכוּשׁ (rekush, `{{H7399}}`) specifically denotes acquired goods, property, or possessions. כָּבוֹד (kavod, `{{H3519}}`), meaning "glory" or "honor," is frequently associated with ʻôsher, as wealth often conferred social status and prestige in ancient societies.
In the New Testament, the Greek equivalent πλοῦτος (ploutos, `{{G4149}}`) carries a similar dual meaning, referring to both material riches and, significantly, spiritual abundance (e.g., "the riches of His grace" [[Ephesians 1:7]]). This Greek parallel highlights the biblical understanding that true, enduring ʻôsher is often spiritual rather than material. The contrast between material ʻôsher and spiritual values like wisdom, righteousness, and the fear of the Lord is a recurring theme, emphasizing the superiority of the latter ([[Proverbs 8:18-21]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ʻôsher is complex and multifaceted. Fundamentally, the Bible teaches that all ʻôsher ultimately originates from God ([[Deuteronomy 8:18]]). He is the sovereign dispenser of wealth, and humanity is called to recognize Him as the source of all provision. This understanding fosters a theology of stewardship, where ʻôsher is not an end in itself but a trust from God to be managed responsibly for His glory and the good of others, particularly the poor and needy.
However, the Scriptures also issue stern warnings about the spiritual dangers of ʻôsher. It can foster pride, self-sufficiency, and a false sense of security, leading individuals to forget God or to trust in their own resources rather than divine provision ([[Proverbs 11:28]]). The pursuit of ʻôsher for its own sake is often condemned as idolatry, diverting affections from God ([[Matthew 6:24]]). The biblical narrative consistently prioritizes righteousness, justice, and devotion to God over the accumulation of material ʻôsher, asserting that true blessing lies not in what one possesses but in one's relationship with the Creator.
### Summary
The Hebrew word ʻôsher (`{{H6239}}`) denotes material wealth and abundance, stemming from the root "to be rich." While often presented as a tangible blessing from God, signifying divine favor and covenant faithfulness, ʻôsher is simultaneously portrayed as a significant spiritual danger. Biblical texts frequently caution against the perils of pride, self-reliance, and idolatry that can accompany the accumulation of wealth. The Scriptures consistently emphasize that God is the ultimate source of all ʻôsher, calling believers to responsible stewardship rather than covetous pursuit. Ultimately, the Bible elevates spiritual riches—wisdom, righteousness, and a deep relationship with God—as infinitely more valuable and enduring than any earthly ʻôsher.
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