### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂrâraṭ**, represented by `{{H780}}`, refers to **Ararat (or rather Armenia)**. This term, which is of foreign origin, appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses**. It consistently designates a specific geographical region, identified in scripture as both a mountainous area and a political kingdom.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its most prominent appearance, Ararat is the location where Noah's ark **rested** `{{H5117}}` after the great flood, specifically "upon the mountains{H2022} of Ararat{H780}" [[Genesis 8:4]]. This establishes it as a place of new beginnings and safety following divine judgment. The region also serves as a land of refuge in the accounts of 2 Kings and Isaiah. After smiting their father, Sennacherib, his sons **escaped** `{{H4422}}` into the "land{H776} of Armenia{H780}" ([[2 Kings 19:37]]; [[Isaiah 37:38]]). Lastly, it is identified as a military power, with the prophet Jeremiah calling upon the "kingdoms{H4467} of Ararat{H780}" to prepare for war [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which Ararat appears:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This word is directly tied to Ararat's most famous biblical event, specifying the ark came to rest upon the **mountains** of Ararat [[Genesis 8:4]].
* `{{H5117}}` **nûwach** (to rest, i.e. settle down): This verb describes the action of the ark settling on Ararat, marking the conclusion of the flood and the beginning of a new era for humanity [[Genesis 8:4]].
* `{{H4422}}` **mâlaṭ** (to escape): This term is used to describe how Sennacherib's sons found refuge in the land of Ararat, highlighting it as a place of sanctuary from retribution [[Isaiah 37:38]].
* `{{H4467}}` **mamlâkâh** (kingdom, king's, reign, royal): This identifies Ararat not just as a geographical feature but as a political entity, one of the **kingdoms** summoned by God to execute judgment [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H780}}` is tied to its role in God's sovereign acts in history.
* **Place of New Covenant:** As the resting place of the ark, the mountains of Ararat symbolize the end of God's judgment and the beginning of His renewed covenant with Noah and all living creatures [[Genesis 8:4]].
* **Sanctuary from Judgment:** The land of Ararat functions as a literal place of escape for the sons of Sennacherib, placing it as a realm outside the immediate reach of Assyrian power and its consequences [[2 Kings 19:37]].
* **Instrument of Divine Will:** God calls upon the kingdom of Ararat, along with other nations, to act as an instrument of His will in bringing judgment upon Babylon, demonstrating His sovereignty over all kingdoms [[Jeremiah 51:27]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H780}}` **ʼĂrâraṭ** is a significant geographical and political name in scripture. While its appearances are few, they are pivotal. It represents the post-judgment hope for humanity in the account of Noah, a physical place of refuge from worldly powers, and a kingdom marshaled by God to fulfill His prophetic purposes. Ararat illustrates a location that figures into God’s plans for both salvation and judgment.
TRV