### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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