### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼerʼêl**, represented by `{{H691}}`, is understood to mean a **hero** or **valiant one**. It appears only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single usage particularly significant. The word is used collectively to describe a group of mighty or heroic figures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H691}}` is used to describe the state of the nation's heroes during a time of crisis. The verse in [[Isaiah 33:7]] states, "Behold, their **valiant ones** shall cry without: the ambassadors of peace shall weep bitterly." This image powerfully conveys a situation of complete despair, where even the nation's strongest defenders are reduced to public cries of anguish. The context suggests a failure of both military might and political diplomacy, leaving the people utterly helpless.
### Related Words & Concepts
The single verse where `{{H691}}` appears contains several key related words that build a scene of profound distress:
* `{{H6817}}` **tsâʻaq** (to shriek; cry (out)): This describes the sound made by the "valiant ones." It is a word for an anguished cry, often directed toward God in times of trouble when people cry out for deliverance ([[Psalms 107:6]], [[Exodus 14:10]]).
* `{{H4397}}` **mălʼâk** (a messenger; ambassador, angel): This term, used for the "ambassadors," denotes a representative, whether human or divine. The despair of these messengers of peace highlights the collapse of diplomatic solutions [[Isaiah 33:7]].
* `{{H7965}}` **shâlôwm** (welfare, health, prosperity, peace): The ambassadors who weep are explicitly messengers of **peace**. This word signifies complete well-being, so its association with bitter weeping emphasizes a total loss of security and prosperity [[Isaiah 33:7]].
* `{{H1058}}` **bâkâh** (to weep; bemoan): This word captures the intense sorrow of the ambassadors. It is a term used for deep mourning and grief, such as when priests are called to **weep** for the people [[Joel 2:17]] or in moments of personal anguish [[Isaiah 38:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H691}}` is concentrated in its singular, dramatic usage.
* **The Limits of Human Strength:** The image of **valiant ones** crying out demonstrates that human heroism has its breaking point. It serves as a reminder that earthly power is finite and cannot provide ultimate security.
* **The Failure of Worldly Peace:** By pairing the crying heroes with weeping ambassadors of **peace** `{{H7965}}`, the text shows that both military might and human negotiations have failed. This points to the idea that true, lasting peace is not a human achievement but comes from God [[Isaiah 9:6]].
* **A Prerequisite for Deliverance:** The public **cry** `{{H6817}}` of the nation's leaders signifies a moment of utter desperation. In Scripture, such cries are often what precedes divine intervention, as the Lord hears the cries of the afflicted and delivers them [[Psalms 34:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H691}}` is a rare but powerful word that provides a vivid snapshot of national collapse. Its lone appearance in [[Isaiah 33:7]] paints a stark picture of a society whose strongest defenders and wisest diplomats are overcome with grief. **ʼerʼêl** thus serves as a potent theological symbol, illustrating the fragility of human strength and underscoring the biblical principle that ultimate hope and security rest in God alone.
TRV