The meaning of “אָרַב”
Understanding ʼârab reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
(lie in) ambush(-ment), lay (lie in) wait. - to lurk 1) to lie in wait, ambush, lurk 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lie in wait 1a2) ...
אָרַב
(lie in) ambush(-ment), lay (lie in) wait. - to lurk 1) to lie in wait, ambush, lurk 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to lie in wait 1a2) ambush (participle as subst) 1b) (Piel) ambushers, liers-in-wait (pl. participle) 1c) (Hiphil) to lay an ambush
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Deuteronomy 19:11 | “But if any man hate his neighbour, and lie in wait for him, and rise up against him, and smite him mortally that he die, and fleeth into one of these cities:” Word: אָרַב (ʼârab) | |
| Judges 16:12 | “Delilah therefore took new ropes, and bound him therewith, and said unto him, The Philistines be upon thee, Samson. And there were liers in wait abiding in the chamber. And he brake them from off his arms like a thread.” Word: אָרַב (ʼârab) | |
| 2 Chronicles 20:22 | “And when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.” Word: אָרַב (ʼârab) | |
| Job 31:9 | “If mine heart have been deceived by a woman, or if I have laid wait at my neighbour’s door;” Word: אָרַב (ʼârab) | |
| Proverbs 12:6 | “The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.” Word: אָרַב (ʼârab) |