בְּרִי

fat

Definition

The Hebrew noun בְּרִי (bᵉrîy) specifically refers to fatness or the state of being fat, often in a physical sense. It is derived from the root בָּרָה (bārâ), meaning 'to be fat' or 'to become fat'. While its core meaning is straightforward, in biblical contexts, physical fatness could symbolize prosperity, abundance, and blessing from God, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 32:15 and Nehemiah 9:25. The word is distinct from the more common term for animal fat (חֵלֶב, ḥēleḇ) used in sacrificial contexts.

Biblical Usage

The word בְּרִי is used only a few times in the Old Testament, primarily in poetic or prophetic books. It appears in contexts describing Israel's prosperity and subsequent spiritual decline. For example, in Deuteronomy 32:15, it describes Jeshurun (Israel) growing 'fat' and kicking against God. Similarly, Nehemiah 9:25 recounts how the Israelites enjoyed the 'fatness' of the land, a metaphor for its abundant produce. Its usage consistently carries a connotation of material abundance that can lead to complacency or rebellion.

Etymology

בְּרִי is a noun derived from the root בָּרָה (H1262), which means 'to be or become fat'. This root is related to concepts of eating, being fed, and growing plump. Cognates in other Semitic languages, like Ugaritic, show similar meanings related to fatness or food. The development from the verbal root to the noun represents a shift from the action of becoming fat to the state or result of that condition.

Semantic Range

Theologically, בְּרִי is significant as it illustrates a common biblical theme: material blessing from God carries the spiritual danger of pride and forgetfulness. When Israel became 'fat' (Deuteronomy 32:15), it symbolized not just physical prosperity but a heart grown self-sufficient and rebellious against its Provider. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches reading by highlighting how physical conditions in Scripture are often metaphors for spiritual states, warning believers that abundance requires vigilant gratitude and dependence on God.

In ancient Near Eastern culture, fatness was a direct indicator of wealth, health, and divine favor, as it demonstrated access to plentiful food in an often subsistence-level agricultural society. This contrasts with modern views where fatness can have negative connotations. In Israel's context, the 'fatness of the land' (Nehemiah 9:25) represented the fulfillment of God's promise of a land 'flowing with milk and honey' (Exodus 3:8), making it a powerful symbol of covenantal blessing.

חֵלֶב (ḥēleḇ, H2459) — Specifically refers to the fat of animals, especially the choice fat offered in sacrifices to God. שָׁמֵן (šāmēn, H8080) — Means 'fat' or 'rich' (as in soil or food); often used for fertile land or prosperous people, with a more general sense of richness.

Word Details