### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sârad**, represented by `{{H8277}}`, is a primitive root that means to **escape or survive; remain**. The definition suggests a figurative idea of slipping out, as if by puncturing through a barrier. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible, yet its context provides a clear picture of preservation in the midst of destruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{H8277}}` occurs in the narrative of a great battle led by Joshua. Following a massive slaughter where the enemies of Israel were almost entirely consumed, the scripture notes that "the rest which **remained** `{{H8277}}` of them entered into fenced cities" [[Joshua 10:20]]. In this verse, the word captures the experience of the few who managed to escape the widespread slaying and find safety within fortified walls, highlighting its core meaning of survival against overwhelming odds.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of **sârad**:
* `{{H8300}}` **sârîyd** (a survivor): This noun is derived directly from `{{H8277}}` and refers to a "survivor" or "remnant." It is used to describe the people who are left after a catastrophic event, such as the "very small remnant" God left for his people [[Isaiah 1:9]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): This word describes the violent action from which the survivors escaped. In [[Joshua 10:20]], the Israelites made an end of "slaying" their enemies. The term is also used when God threatens to "smite" the earth [[Malachi 4:6]].
* `{{H8552}}` **tâmam** (to consume): This word signifies the fate of those who did not survive. It stands in direct opposition to `{{H8277}}`, as most were "consumed" in the battle [[Joshua 10:20]], while only a few remained. It underscores the totality of the destruction that was escaped.
### Theological Significance
While rare, the theological concept behind `{{H8277}}` is significant, primarily through its connection to the idea of a remnant.
* **Survival Amidst Judgment:** The appearance of **sârad** in [[Joshua 10:20]] establishes a theme of preservation in the face of utter destruction. It shows that even in a divinely commanded slaughter, a few were able to escape.
* **The Preserved Remnant:** The verb `{{H8277}}` is conceptually linked to the noun **sârîyd** `{{H8300}}`, a crucial theological term. This remnant is often depicted as being preserved by God's grace, as seen when "the people which were left of the sword found grace in the wilderness" [[Jeremiah 31:2]] and deliverance is promised to the "remnant whom the LORD shall call" [[Joel 2:32]].
* **Seeking Refuge:** The act of survival was not passive. Those who remained `{{H8277}}` took the deliberate action to **enter** (`{{H935}}`) into fortified cities for protection [[Joshua 10:20]], illustrating that preservation can involve seeking a place of safety.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8277}}` **sârad** is a precise verb for surviving or remaining. Though it appears only once, its use in [[Joshua 10:20]] provides a powerful illustration of escaping a deadly threat. More importantly, it serves as the active, verbal root for the profound biblical doctrine of the remnant (`sârîyd`), a people preserved by God through judgment and for His ultimate purposes.
TRV