עָקַד

to tie with thongs

Definition

The Hebrew verb עָקַד means to bind or tie up, specifically by fastening with thongs or cords. It describes the act of securing something, often an animal, by tying its legs together. In its single biblical occurrence in Genesis 22:9, it refers to Abraham binding his son Isaac on the altar. The action implies a deliberate, careful, and complete securing, not merely a loose tying.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the Old Testament, in Genesis 22:9, within the narrative of the binding of Isaac (the Akedah). The context is the sacrificial ritual Abraham prepares to perform at God's command. The usage is specific and dramatic, describing the final physical act of preparing Isaac as the offering.

Etymology

A primitive root. It is related to the concept of tying or binding, with possible cognates in other Semitic languages suggesting a connection to the ankle or fetlock, the part of an animal's leg where it might be tied. The meaning is straightforward and concrete.

Semantic Range

This word is profoundly significant theologically as it is the central action in the 'Akedah' (the Binding of Isaac) in Genesis 22. It captures the moment of ultimate obedience and surrender, foreshadowing the concept of substitutionary sacrifice. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of this pivotal narrative, highlighting the deliberate and binding nature of Abraham's faith and God's provision of the ram.

In the ancient Near Eastern context, binding an animal was a standard preparatory step for sacrifice, ensuring it would not struggle. Applying this action to a human being, Isaac, dramatically subverts the norm and intensifies the narrative's emotional and theological weight, signaling this is no ordinary ritual.

אָסַר (ʼâçar, H631) — a more general term for binding, tying, or imprisoning; often used for tying animals or binding prisoners. עָקַד implies a specific method of binding, likely the legs.

Word Details

Scripture References