אָזַר
to belt
Definition
The Hebrew verb אָזַר (ʼâzar) means 'to gird' or 'to belt,' describing the act of fastening a belt or sash around the waist. In a literal sense, it refers to the physical preparation for action, such as girding on a sword (2 Samuel 22:40) or a garment (2 Kings 1:8). Figuratively, it conveys the idea of strengthening, equipping, or preparing oneself, often for battle, work, or divine service, as seen when God 'girds' someone with strength (Psalm 18:32, 39). In a few instances, it describes being tightly constrained, as in Job 30:18 where Job's garment 'girds' him closely in his affliction.
Biblical Usage
אָזַר is used 15 times in the Old Testament, primarily in poetic and narrative books. Its literal usage appears in descriptions of attire, like Elijah's leather belt (2 Kings 1:8) or the girding of a sword. Its figurative usage is more prominent, especially in contexts of divine empowerment for battle (2 Samuel 22:40, Psalm 18:39) or in calls to readiness, such as God's command to Job to 'gird up your loins like a man' (Job 38:3, 40:7), symbolizing preparation for a serious challenge. It also appears in Hannah's prayer celebrating God who 'girds the feeble with strength' (1 Samuel 2:4).
Etymology
אָזַר is a primitive root, meaning its origin is not derived from another Hebrew word. It is related to the noun אֵזוֹר (ʼezôr, H232), meaning 'belt' or 'girdle.' Cognates exist in other Semitic languages, such as Ugaritic and Arabic, with similar meanings of binding or encircling. The core idea revolves around encircling the waist, from which developed the concepts of preparation and strengthening.
Semantic Range
This word carries theological weight as it frequently depicts God's action in empowering His people. The imagery of being 'girded' by God (Psalm 18:32, 39) underscores divine enablement for life's battles and tasks, highlighting human dependence on God's strength. The command to 'gird up your loins' (Job 38:3, 40:7) is a powerful metaphor for spiritual and intellectual readiness before God, inviting humble engagement with His majesty and wisdom. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the biblical metaphor of being equipped and prepared by God for His purposes.
In ancient Israelite culture, girding one's loins (tucking long robes into a belt) was essential for physical labor, travel, or combat, allowing freedom of movement. Thus, 'girding' was a universal symbol of readiness and action. A loose garment signified rest or mourning, while a girded one indicated preparedness. This tangible, everyday action gave the term its powerful figurative meaning, which modern readers might miss without this cultural insight.
חָגַר (châgar, H2296) — also means 'to gird,' often used interchangeably, but can emphasize the act of putting on armor or weaponry. אָפַד (ʼâphad, H640) — means 'to bind' or 'gird on,' specifically for ephods or priestly garments. פָּתַח (pâthach, H6605) — means 'to open' or 'loose,' serving as an antonym in contexts of girding vs. ungirding.
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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