### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Aramaic word **ʼăraq**, represented by `{{H778}}`, is a term for **the earth**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word is noted as a transmutation for `{{H772}}` ʼăraʻ, which also means earth, indicating a close linguistic relationship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H778}}` is in [[Jeremiah 10:11]], where it is part of a declarative statement against idolatry. The verse contrasts the God of creation with powerless false gods. It states that "The gods that have not made the heavens and the **earth**" are destined to perish. In this context, `{{H778}}` is used specifically to denote the created world as the ultimate evidence of divine power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Aramaic words provide a fuller context for the meaning of `{{H778}}`:
* `{{H772}}` **ʼăraʻ** (the earth; by implication (figuratively) low; earth, interior): This is the root word from which `{{H778}}` is derived. Both words appear in [[Jeremiah 10:11]], emphasizing that false gods will perish from the very **earth** they did not create.
* `{{H8065}}` **shâmayin** (the sky...; heaven): This word for **heaven** is used in direct contrast and partnership with `{{H778}}` to describe the entirety of creation. The verse identifies powerless gods as those who did not make "the **heavens** and the earth" [[Jeremiah 10:11]].
* `{{H5648}}` **ʻăbad** (to do, make, prepare, keep, etc.): This verb is central to the context of `{{H778}}`, as it describes the act of creation. The false gods are defined by their inability to have **made** the earth [[Jeremiah 10:11]].
* `{{H426}}` **ʼĕlâhh** (God; God, god): The word for **earth** is used in a judgment against false **gods** `{{H426}}`, distinguishing them from the one true Creator [[Jeremiah 10:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H778}}`, despite its single use, is precise and impactful.
* **The Litmus Test of Divinity:** The ability to create the **earth** `{{H778}}` and heavens is established as the clear dividing line between the true God and false idols. Any god who did not create is not a true god [[Jeremiah 10:11]].
* **Creation as God's Domain:** The pairing of "heavens and the **earth**" signifies the total scope of God's sovereign power. This created realm is uniquely His.
* **The Fate of Idols:** The word is used within a prophetic sentence. The gods who failed to create the **earth** will be removed from the earth, demonstrating their ultimate impotence and the Creator's authority over all things [[Jeremiah 10:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H778}}` **ʼăraq** is a specific Aramaic term for "the earth" whose sole biblical appearance carries significant weight. Its use in [[Jeremiah 10:11]] serves as a cornerstone for a powerful theological argument: that the act of creating the heavens and the earth is the exclusive and defining characteristic of the one true God, and all other claimants to divinity are destined to perish.
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