### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼereb**, represented by `{{H695}}`, refers to an **ambuscade** or a **den**. It is derived from a root meaning to lie in wait. This specific term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within the book of Job, where it describes the lairs of wild animals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H695}}` is employed to paint a picture of the natural world. It describes the behavior of wild animals seeking shelter or preparing for an attack. In one instance, it refers to the **dens** that **beasts** `{{H2416}}` retreat into to remain in their places [[Job 37:8]]. In another, it describes a place of ambush, where animals couch in their dens and abide in the covert to **lie in wait** [[Job 38:40]]. Both examples are used within speeches highlighting God's sovereignty over creation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to form the context for `{{H695}}`:
* `{{H4585}}` **mᵉʻôwnâh** (den, habitation, dwelling place): This word is used in conjunction with `{{H695}}` to describe the physical dwelling or lair of an animal, emphasizing it as a place of retreat or refuge [[Job 37:8]].
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab** (to sit down, dwell, remain): This verb describes the action of abiding or remaining in the covert. Its definition, which includes sitting "in ambush," directly connects to the idea of lying in wait [[Job 38:40]].
* `{{H7817}}` **shâchach** (to couch, bow down, bring low): This term illustrates the posture of an animal within its den, suggesting it is crouching down either in rest or in preparation for an ambush [[Job 38:40]].
### Theological Significance
While used literally, the imagery associated with `{{H695}}` carries notable weight within its context.
* **Sovereignty over Nature:** The use of `{{H695}}` in Job is part of God's discourse to demonstrate His comprehensive knowledge and power over the instinctual habits of the animal kingdom, from a beast going into its **den** to a predator preparing to strike [[Job 37:8]].
* **A Place of Hiding and Danger:** The word embodies a dual concept of a lair being both a place of shelter for the animal and a place of hidden danger for its prey. It is a place to **abide** `{{H3427}}` but also to **lie in wait** `{{H695}}`.
* **Contrast with Divine Refuge:** The animal **den** `{{H695}}` as a physical hiding place stands in contrast to the concept of God as a spiritual **refuge** `{{H4585}}`. While a beast retreats to its lair, Scripture presents God Himself as a secure dwelling place for His people [[Deuteronomy 33:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H695}}` **ʼereb** is a specific term for an animal's **den** or a place of **ambuscade**. Though its usage is rare, its appearance in the book of Job powerfully illustrates the raw, instinctual aspects of the natural world under God's domain. It effectively conveys the dual nature of a lair as both a private retreat and a concealed point of attack, creating a vivid image of life in the wild.
TRV