The Hebrew name ʼĂravnâh, represented by H728, identifies a specific individual: a Jebusite H2983. The word, which appears 9 times across 7 unique verses, is notable for its orthographical variations, including Ornah. Araunah's primary role in scripture is as the owner of a threshingfloor that becomes a site of immense theological importance.
The biblical narrative centers on an interaction between ʼĂravnâh H728 and King H4428 David H1732. An angel H4397 of the LORD H3068 was at Araunah's threshingplace H1637 to destroy H7843 Jerusalem H3389, but the LORD repented H5162 and stayed the angel's hand H3027 2 Samuel 24:16. Prompted by the prophet Gad H1410, David went to build H1129 an altar H4196 on that spot to stop the plague H4046 (2 Samuel 24:18, 2 Samuel 24:21). Araunah, showing deep reverence, bowed H7812 to the king and generously offered to give H5414 the threshingfloor, oxen H1241 for the burnt sacrifice H5930, and threshing instruments H4173 for wood H6086 2 Samuel 24:20-22. However, David insisted on buying the property at a price H4242, famously stating he would not offer to God H430 that which cost him nothing H2600 2 Samuel 24:24.
Several related words provide context for Araunah's story:
- H2983 Yᵉbûwçîy (Jebusite): This word, meaning "a Jebusite or inhabitant of Jebus," defines Araunah's identity as a non-Israelite whose land plays a key role in Israel's history 2 Samuel 24:16.
- H1637 gôren (threshing-floor): Defined as "a threshing-floor (as made even); by analogy, any open area," this term identifies the specific location where divine judgment was halted and a place of worship was established 2 Samuel 24:18.
- H7069 qânâh (to buy, possess): Meaning "to procure, especially by purchase," this word is central to David's actions. His insistence to buy H7069 the threshingfloor from Araunah underscores a foundational principle of sacrificial worship 2 Samuel 24:24.
The theological weight of the encounter with H728 is significant. It illustrates several core principles of faith and worship.
- A Site of Mercy: The threshingfloor of Araunah becomes the location where God's destructive judgment is stopped and divine mercy is displayed. The plague H4046 is stayed from the people H5971 at this very spot 2 Samuel 24:21.
- The Cost of Worship: King David's refusal to accept Araunah's generous gift establishes the principle that true worship and sacrifice must have a personal cost. He would not offer H5927 to the LORD H3068 what was given freely 2 Samuel 24:24.
- A Place of Atonement: David's purpose in acquiring the land was to build H1129 an altar H4196 to the LORD. This act transformed a common workspace into a consecrated place for making atonement and restoring relationship with God.
In summary, H728 is far more than a name; it represents a pivotal moment in biblical history. The story of ʼĂravnâh the Jebusite and his threshingfloor provides the setting for a powerful lesson on divine mercy, reverence, and the nature of true sacrificial worship. The transaction between him and King David establishes a holy site where judgment ceased and a new place for approaching God was built.
TRV