עֵרֶךְ

a pile, equipment, estimate

Definition

The Hebrew noun עֵרֶךְ (ʻêrek) primarily means 'valuation' or 'appointed price,' referring to the assessed monetary value of a person, animal, or object, especially in the context of vows or offerings to the Lord (Leviticus 27:2-4). It can also denote a 'row' or 'orderly arrangement,' such as the setting of the bread of the Presence in rows on the table (Exodus 40:23). In a few instances, it carries the sense of 'equipment' or 'furnishings' for the tabernacle (Exodus 40:4).

Biblical Usage

This word is used almost exclusively in priestly and legal contexts, particularly in Leviticus (17 occurrences) and Exodus (5 occurrences). Its primary usage is in the laws concerning voluntary vows and trespass offerings, where it specifies the standard valuation for redemption (Leviticus 5:15, 18; 27:1-8). The sense of 'orderly arrangement' appears in the descriptions of tabernacle ritual (Exodus 40:4, 23).

Etymology

Derived from the root עָרַךְ (ʻārak, H6186), meaning 'to arrange, set in order, or set in a row.' This root conveys ideas of orderly preparation, such as setting a table, arranging a battle line, or presenting a legal case. Thus, עֵרֶךְ inherits concepts of systematic arrangement and assigned value.

Semantic Range

עֵרֶךְ is theologically significant as it establishes the principle of divinely appointed worth and substitution within Israel's worship system. In Leviticus 27, it shows that everything dedicated to God has a standardized, objective value, making worship equitable and accessible regardless of personal wealth. It points to God's orderly nature and the concept that approaching Him requires a proper, 'arranged' offering, foreshadowing the perfect, sufficient valuation provided by Christ's sacrifice.

In ancient Israelite culture, vows and dedications to the sanctuary were common, but not everyone could offer the actual vowed item (like an animal). The 'valuation' system provided a monetary equivalent, allowing broader participation in worship. The fixed rates (e.g., for persons based on age and gender in Leviticus 27:3-7) reflect a societal structure different from modern individualism, assigning standardized economic values within a communal religious framework.

מִשְׁקָל (mishqāl, H4948) — refers specifically to 'weight' or the actual measured quantity, whereas עֵרֶךְ is an assessed value. כֶּסֶף (keseph, H3701) — means 'silver' or 'money,' the medium of payment, while עֵרֶךְ is the valuation itself. מְחִיר (mĕchîyr, H4242) — means 'price' or 'payment,' often the actual cost, while עֵרֶךְ is the official assessment.

Word Details

Scripture References