עֲתֶרֶת
copiousness
Definition
The Hebrew noun עֲתֶרֶת (ʻăthereth) means 'copiousness' or 'abundance,' specifically referring to a plentiful, overflowing quantity. It derives from the root עָתַר (ʻāthar), which carries the sense of being abundant or making abundant. In its single biblical occurrence in Jeremiah 33:6, it describes the 'abundance of peace and truth' that God promises to restore to Jerusalem. The word emphasizes not just presence but rich, superabundant provision, often with a connotation of something that is heaped up or plentiful beyond ordinary measure.
Biblical Usage
This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Jeremiah 33:6. It appears in a prophetic context where God promises future restoration and healing for Judah and Jerusalem. The usage is poetic and eschatological, describing the quality and magnitude of the peace and truth that will characterize the renewed city. The term 'abundance' here modifies abstract, covenantal blessings, indicating their copious and secure nature.
Etymology
עֲתֶרֶת is a feminine noun derived from the root עָתַר (H6280, ʻāthar), which means 'to be abundant' or 'to make abundant.' This root is also the basis for the verb meaning 'to pray' or 'to entreat' (עָתַר), suggesting an underlying idea of pressing in with abundance—whether of words in supplication or of material in provision. Cognates in other Semitic languages support the sense of 'wealth' or 'plenty.'
Semantic Range
Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it encapsulates God's promise of superabundant blessing in restoration. In Jeremiah 33:6, the 'abundance of peace and truth' points to the messianic shalom and covenantal faithfulness God will lavish upon His people. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting that God's promised restoration is not minimal but overflowing, emphasizing His generosity and the completeness of His healing work.
In ancient Israelite culture, abundance or copiousness was often associated with divine blessing and favor, particularly in agricultural and covenantal contexts. An 'abundance' of peace (shalom) would have been understood as comprehensive well-being—prosperity, security, health, and right relationships—extending far beyond the mere absence of conflict. This promised abundance contrasted sharply with the scarcity and desolation experienced during the Babylonian siege, making it a powerful image of hope.
רֹב (rov, H7230) — a more general term for multitude or greatness, often used for people or things. שָׂבָע (śāvāʻ, H7647) — denotes satiety or plenty, often related to food and satisfaction. עֹשֶׁר (ʻōsher, H6239) — specifically refers to material wealth or riches.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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