The Hebrew word ʼărîyʼêl, represented by H739, is defined as lion of God, heroic, or lionlike men. It is a compound word derived from the terms for lion, אֲרִי, and God, אֵל. This specific term is rare, appearing only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the entire Bible.
The use of H739 is found in two parallel accounts describing the exploits of one of David's mighty men. In both 2 Samuel 23:20 and 1 Chronicles 11:22, the text states that Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, "slew two lionlike men of Moab." The description of these Moabite warriors as lionlike men emphasizes their formidable strength and ferocity, making Benaiah's victory a notable heroic act. This feat is listed alongside Benaiah's other great acts, such as slaying a literal lion in a pit on a snowy day.
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of H739:
- H738 ʼărîy (lion): This is the root word for "lion" within ʼărîyʼêl. It appears in the same verses where Benaiah is praised for slaying a lion (2 Samuel 23:20, 1 Chronicles 11:22), drawing a direct parallel between the beast and the lionlike men.
- H1141 Bᵉnâyâh (Benaiah): The name of the Israelite warrior who slew the two lionlike men. His name means "Jah has built," and he is consistently depicted as a key figure in David's inner circle 2 Samuel 8:18.
- H2428 chayil (valour, strength): Benaiah is introduced as the son of a valiant man (2 Samuel 23:20, 1 Chronicles 11:22). This word signifies valor, strength, and might, providing the character context for the man who could defeat lionlike men.
- H3077 Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ (Jehoiada): The father of Benaiah, whose name means "Jehovah-known." He is mentioned as a priest who played a crucial role in establishing covenants 2 Kings 11:17 and anointing a king 2 Chronicles 23:11.
The significance of H739 is centered on its powerful imagery of strength and martial prowess.
- A Standard for Heroism: The term lionlike men is used to describe incredibly formidable opponents. By defeating them, Benaiah's own valor is magnified, establishing a benchmark for heroic deeds among David's warriors 2 Samuel 23:20.
- "Lion of God": The literal translation, "lion of God," implies a level of strength or fierceness that is almost supernatural. It designates these individuals as more than just strong; they were warriors of legendary, fearsome reputation.
- Conflation of Man and Beast: The narrative in both 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles deliberately places the slaying of the lionlike men next to the slaying of an actual lion. This literary device equates the danger and courage required for both acts, cementing the meaning of ʼărîyʼêl as a term for a human with the power of a lion.
In summary, H739 is a specific and impactful term used to convey extraordinary heroism. Though its usage is limited, its meaning as "lion of God" or "lionlike men" is clearly defined by its context. It describes warriors of such immense strength and ferocity that defeating them was a legendary feat, worthy of being recorded as one of the great acts of valor performed in service to the king.
TRV