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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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