נָעַר

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word nâʻar, represented by H5286, is a primitive root defined as to growl; yell. This highly specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its meaning is therefore entirely derived from its singular, powerful context.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H5286 is in Jeremiah 51:38, where it is used to describe the aggressive vocalization of a group acting in unison. The verse states, "They shall roar together like lions: they shall yell as lions' whelps." Here, the act of yelling is set in parallel with roaring, creating a vivid image of fierce, animalistic power. The context is one of collective, hostile action, likened to the sound of young, predatory animals.

Related Words & Concepts

The meaning of H5286 is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:

• H7580 shâʼag (to rumble or moan; [idiom] mightily, roar): This is the direct parallel action to "yell" in Jeremiah 51:38. It is frequently used to describe the powerful roar of a lion or the voice of the LORD himself in judgment Hosea 11:10.
• H3715 kᵉphîyr (a young lion): This specifies the type of creature whose sound is being emulated. Young lions are often depicted as bold, strong, and hungry (Proverbs 28:1, Psalms 34:10).
• H738 ʼărîy (a lion): A more general term for lion, this word is associated with destructive power and is used to describe agents of judgment (Jeremiah 4:7, Jeremiah 5:6).
• H1484 gôwr (a cub... especially of the lion; whelp): The "yell" of H5286 is specifically compared to the cry of lions' whelps, adding a layer of wildness to the imagery Jeremiah 51:38.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of H5286 is tied directly to its role in portraying divine judgment through natural imagery.

• Vocalization of Judgment: Occurring within a prophetic passage, the "yell" is not a simple sound but a component of an overwhelming force. It is part of the "roaring" that signifies a coming onslaught Jeremiah 51:38.
• Imagery of Ferocity: The word is exclusively framed by the metaphor of lions, which are consistently used in Scripture to represent unstoppable and terrifying power, whether from human enemies or from God himself Amos 3:8.
• Unified Aggression: The use of the word H3162 yachad (together) in Jeremiah 51:38 emphasizes that this is a collective roar and yell, amplifying the sense of an overwhelming and coordinated attack.

Summary

In summary, H5286 is a precise and potent term whose meaning is entirely shaped by its single appearance. It denotes a fierce yell or growl akin to that of young lions. While extremely rare, it contributes to a significant biblical theme where the sounds of predators are used as a metaphor for the execution of overwhelming power and divine judgment. Its meaning is inseparable from the roaring of lions and the unified threat they represent in scripture.