### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼârôk**, represented by `{{H752}}`, means **long**. It is derived from the word אָרַךְ. Despite its simple definition, its usage highlights extended periods of time and vastness of scale. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, each instance carrying significant weight.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical applications, `{{H752}}` describes durations and dimensions of great consequence. It is used to characterize the protracted conflict between the **house** `{{H1004}}` of **Saul** `{{H7586}}` and the **house** `{{H1004}}` of **David** `{{H1732}}` as a "**long** war" [[2 Samuel 3:1]]. The term also conveys immense scale in a figurative sense, as when a **measure** `{{H4055}}` is described as "**longer** than the **earth** `{{H776}}`" [[Job 11:9]]. Finally, it defines the period of exile, when the prophet Jeremiah conveys that the captivity in **Babylon** `{{H894}}` is "**long**" [[Jeremiah 29:28]], shaping the mindset of the people for the generation to come.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of "long":
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (war): As seen in the phrase "**long** war" [[2 Samuel 3:1]], this word describes a battle or period of warfare. Scripture reminds that ultimate victory in any **war** belongs to God, as "the **battle** is not yours, but God's" [[2 Chronicles 20:15]].
* `{{H4055}}` **mad** (measure): This term for a measure or extent provides the context for something being "**longer** than the earth" [[Job 11:9]]. It can also refer to a garment or armour, as when **David** `{{H1732}}` girded a sword upon his **armour** [[1 Samuel 17:39]].
* `{{H1129}}` **bânâh** (to build): The declaration that the captivity would be "**long**" was accompanied by the instruction to **build** houses [[Jeremiah 29:28]]. This word signifies establishing something permanent, both literally and figuratively, as when a wise woman **buildeth** her house [[Proverbs 14:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{H752}}` center on God's sovereignty over time and human experience.
* **Protracted Conflict and Providence:** The "**long** war" between the houses of **Saul** `{{H7586}}` and **David** `{{H1732}}` illustrates a divinely overseen transition of power, where one house grew progressively **weaker** `{{H1800}}` and the other **stronger** `{{H2390}}` over an extended period [[2 Samuel 3:1]].
* **Immeasurable Divine Scale:** The word is used to express that which is beyond human comprehension, where a **measure** `{{H4055}}` is "**longer** than the **earth** `{{H776}}` and **broader** `{{H7342}}` than the **sea** `{{H3220}}`" [[Job 11:9]], pointing to the infinite nature of God's wisdom or work.
* **Endurance through Appointed Time:** By declaring the captivity in **Babylon** `{{H894}}` to be "**long**," God instructs His people not to wait passively but to **build** `{{H1129}}` houses, **plant** `{{H5193}}` gardens, and live faithfully within the appointed time of judgment [[Jeremiah 29:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H752}}` **ʼârôk** extends beyond a simple descriptor of length. It is used in Scripture to frame significant periods of history, such as war and exile, and to articulate the vast, immeasurable nature of divine concepts. It underscores themes of endurance, providence, and the necessity of settling into God's timing, even during long seasons of trial.
TRV