The Hebrew word ʼArvad, represented by H719, refers to an island-city of Palestine, with a name that probably means "a refuge for the roving". It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. It is identified as a place whose inhabitants were skilled mariners and soldiers who served the city of Tyre.
The two appearances of H719 occur in the prophecy against Tyrus (Tyre) in the book of Ezekiel. Arvad is presented as a key contributor to Tyre's maritime and military strength. In Ezekiel 27:8, the inhabitants (H3427) of Arvad and Zidon (H6721) are identified as Tyre's mariners (H7751). In a parallel description of Tyre's military power, the men (H1121) of Arvad are depicted as soldiers in its army (H2428), stationed upon the city walls (H2346) Ezekiel 27:11.
Several related words clarify the role of Arvad's people in relation to Tyre:
- H7751 shûwṭ (to row; to travel): This word describes the men of Arvad as "mariners" for Tyre, highlighting their role in the seafaring prowess that defined the region Ezekiel 27:8.
- H2428 chayil (army, strength, valor): This term is used for the "army" of Tyre in which the men of Arvad served, indicating their contribution to Tyre's military force and valor Ezekiel 27:11.
- H2346 chôwmâh (a wall of protection): This identifies the station of Arvad's soldiers as being "upon thy walls," emphasizing their defensive function for Tyre. The hanging of shields on these walls made Tyre's beauty perfect Ezekiel 27:11.
The significance of H719 is found in its specific role within the prophetic depiction of Tyre's extensive network of power and wealth.
- Source of Specialized Skill: Arvad is portrayed as a source of specialized labor for Tyre. Its inhabitants (H3427) are named specifically as mariners (H7751) and soldiers for Tyre's army (H2428) (Ezekiel 27:8, Ezekiel 27:11).
- Contributor to Defense and Splendor: The men of Arvad not only defended Tyre by serving on its walls (H2346) but also enhanced its visual glory. By hanging their shields (H7982) upon the walls, they "made thy beauty (H3308) perfect (H3634)" Ezekiel 27:11.
- Component of a Regional Alliance: Mentioned alongside Zidon (H6721) and in service to Tyrus (H6865), Arvad is shown as part of a larger system of interconnected city-states whose resources contributed to Tyre's prominence.
In summary, H719 ʼArvad identifies an island-city whose people were integral to the power and prestige of Tyre. While its appearances are few, they paint a clear picture of a place known for its skilled mariners and valiant soldiers. Arvad's primary biblical significance lies in its role as a key component in the detailed prophetic lament over Tyre's strength, wealth, and eventual downfall in the book of Ezekiel.
TRV