The Hebrew word ʻashtᵉrâh, represented by H6251, refers to a flock or its increase. It is a rare term, appearing only 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition, "probably from עָשַׁר; increase; flock," positions it as a specific indicator of agricultural prosperity, particularly concerning livestock.
All occurrences of H6251 are found in the book of Deuteronomy within the context of the covenant blessings and curses. The word is consistently used to describe the reproductive increase of sheep, promised as a reward for obedience or withdrawn as a punishment for disobedience. As a blessing, God promises to bless "the flocks of thy sheep" (Deuteronomy 7:13, Deuteronomy 28:4). Conversely, as a curse, the same "flocks of thy sheep" are cursed Deuteronomy 28:18 and consumed by enemies Deuteronomy 28:51.
Several related words help frame the agricultural and covenantal context of H6251:
- H6629 tsôʼn: This is a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats). It is directly paired with H6251 in every instance, as in "the flocks of thy sheep" Deuteronomy 7:13, and is also used figuratively for God's people Psalms 100:3.
- H7698 sheger: Meaning increase, this word describes the offspring or fetus of an animal. It appears alongside H6251 to specify the blessing of new births among livestock, such as the "increase of thy kine" Deuteronomy 28:4.
- H504 'eleph: This word can mean family but is used in this context for kine or oxen. It is part of the same blessing and curse formula, highlighting the prosperity of both large and small cattle Deuteronomy 28:18.
- H6529 pᵉrîy: Meaning fruit, this word broadens the theme of increase to all areas of life. It is used for the "fruit of thy body" and "fruit of thy ground," linking human, agricultural, and animal fertility under God's covenant Deuteronomy 28:4.
The theological significance of H6251 is tied directly to its specific context in Deuteronomy.
- Covenantal Signs: The increase or decrease of the "flocks of thy sheep" serves as a tangible, physical sign of Israel's covenant standing with God. Abundance was a mark of divine favor Deuteronomy 7:13.
- Total Blessing: The term is part of a comprehensive list of blessings that includes children, land, grain, wine, and oil. This shows that God's blessing was intended to encompass every aspect of the nation's life and economy.
- Divine Judgment: The loss of these flocks is presented as a direct consequence of sin. The curse formulas demonstrate that the very blessings given by God could be removed or destroyed as a form of judgment for disobedience Deuteronomy 28:51.
In summary, H6251 is a highly specific term for the flocks and increase of sheep. Though used only four times, its role is critical in illustrating the terms of the Deuteronomic covenant. It represents a tangible measure of national wealth and divine blessing, making clear that obedience to God would result in prosperity, while disobedience would lead to ruin and the loss of that same abundance.
TRV