בָּאַר
to dig; by analogy, to engrave; figuratively, to explain
Definition
The Hebrew verb בָּאַר (bâʼar) carries a primary meaning of 'to dig' or 'to excavate,' as in digging a well or pit. By analogy, it extends to the act of engraving or inscribing on a hard surface, such as stone. Most significantly, in a figurative sense, it means to make something clear, plain, or to explain thoroughly, as if digging into a matter to reveal its meaning. This figurative sense is prominent in Deuteronomy 1:5, where Moses begins to 'explain' the law, and in Habakkuk 2:2, where the prophet is told to write a vision and 'make it plain' on tablets.
Biblical Usage
This verb is used only three times in the Old Testament, exclusively in contexts of making divine revelation clear and accessible. In Deuteronomy 1:5, Moses 'explains' (bâʼar) the law to Israel. In Deuteronomy 27:8, the command is to write the law on stones very 'plainly' (a derived adverbial form). In Habakkuk 2:2, the prophet is instructed to write the vision and 'make it plain' on tablets so a runner may read it. All uses relate to the clear communication of God's word.
Etymology
בָּאַר is a primitive root. Its core physical meaning is 'to dig' or 'bore through.' This concrete action naturally developed the metaphorical sense of 'to make plain' or 'explain,' conceptually digging into a subject to uncover and clarify its meaning. Cognates in other Semitic languages support the sense of clarifying or making distinct.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it highlights God's desire for His revelation to be understood. It frames the role of the lawgiver (Moses) and the prophet (Habakkuk) as explainers and heralds, making God's will and message unambiguous and accessible to the people. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by emphasizing the clarity and intentionality behind God's communicated word.
In an ancient Near Eastern context, important texts like law codes and treaties were often publicly inscribed on stone monuments (stelae) for permanence and clarity. The command to write 'very plainly' (Deuteronomy 27:8) reflects this practice, ensuring the covenant law was legible and undeniable to all who passed by. The metaphor of 'digging' into meaning would also resonate in an agrarian society familiar with excavating for water and foundations.
פָּרַשׁ (pârash, H6567) — to separate, distinguish, or interpret; often used for detailed explanation. סָפַר (sâphar, H5608) — to recount, declare, or narrate a sequence. בִּין (bîyn, H995) — to discern, understand, or perceive intelligently.
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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