### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼăresheth**, represented by `{{H782}}`, means **request** or **a longing for**. Its base definition comes from a root word signifying a desire to possess. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{H782}}` is found in [[Psalms 21:2]], which describes God's relationship with the king. The verse states, "Thou hast given him his heart's desire, and hast not withholden the **request** of his lips." In this context, **ʼăresheth** refers to a spoken petition, articulated by the "lips" `{{H8193}}`, which God has not "withholden" `{{H4513}}`. It is presented in parallel with the "desire" `{{H8378}}` of the "heart" `{{H3820}}`, showing it as the outward expression of an inner longing that has been granted `{{H5414}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the meaning of a divine request:
* `{{H8378}}` **taʼăvâh** (desire): Defined as "a longing; by implication, a delight," this word is used in [[Psalms 21:2]] for the unspoken "desire" of the heart. It often represents a deep longing, which, when it comes, is a "tree of life" [[Proverbs 13:12]].
* `{{H4513}}` **mânaʻ** (withhold): This primitive root means "to debar... deny, keep (back), refrain, restrain, withhold." Its use in [[Psalms 21:2]] shows that God actively chose not to deny the request. This aligns with the promise that God will not "withhold" any good thing from them that walk uprightly [[Psalms 84:11]].
* `{{H3820}}` **lêb** (heart): The source of desire, this word signifies "the feelings, the will and even the intellect." The Bible emphasizes its importance, stating that God gives the "desires of thine heart" to those who delight in Him [[Psalms 37:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H782}}` is tied directly to its singular appearance:
* **The Granted Petition:** Its use in [[Psalms 21:2]] portrays God as one who hears and answers the specific, spoken requests of his people. The request is not just a vague wish but an articulated petition from the lips.
* **Heart and Lips in Alignment:** The term is juxtaposed with the "heart's desire" `{{H8378}}`, suggesting a powerful connection between the inner state of the heart `{{H3820}}` and the words spoken by the lips `{{H8193}}`. A righteous request flows from a righteous heart.
* **God as a Generous Giver:** The passage emphasizes that God has "given" `{{H5414}}` and "not withholden" `{{H4513}}` the request. This frames God's character as generous and responsive, one who doesn't deny the petitions that are brought before Him.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H782}}` **ʼăresheth** is used only once, its context in [[Psalms 21:2]] provides a clear and potent meaning. It is not just any longing, but a formal **request** spoken from the lips. Its use illustrates the biblical concept of answered prayer, where the inner desire of the heart is articulated and graciously granted by a God who does not withhold good from His people. The word captures the moment a heartfelt longing becomes a fulfilled petition.
TRV