שְׂעֹרָה

barley (as villose)

Definition

The Hebrew noun שְׂעֹרָה (sᵉʻôrâh) refers to barley, a type of cereal grain. It can denote both the growing plant (Exodus 9:31) and the harvested grain used for food, animal fodder, and as a commodity (Leviticus 27:16, Ruth 2:17). In the biblical world, barley was a staple crop, often considered a food of the common people and livestock, in contrast to the more valued wheat. It also served as a key unit of measurement, as seen in the valuation of fields (Leviticus 27:16).

Biblical Usage

The word appears 32 times, primarily in narrative and legal texts. It is used in agricultural contexts, such as describing crop damage (Exodus 9:31) and harvest seasons (Ruth 1:22). Barley frequently appears in economic and ritual settings, including offerings (Numbers 5:15) and property valuation (Leviticus 27:16). It is also featured symbolically, most notably in Gideon's dream (Judges 7:13) where a loaf of barley bread represents Israel's strength. The book of Ruth uses barley harvest as a central backdrop for the story.

Etymology

Derived from the root שָׂעַר (śāʻar, H8175), meaning 'to be hairy' or 'bristly,' referring to the rough, bearded appearance of the barley husk. This connection highlights the physical characteristic that distinguished barley in the ancient mind. The noun appears in both masculine (שְׂעֹר) and feminine (שְׂעֹרָה) forms, with the feminine typically denoting the plant and the masculine the grain.

Semantic Range

Barley holds theological significance as a symbol of God's provision and humility. It was a staple for the poor (Ruth) and a key element in the Promised Land's bounty (Deuteronomy 8:8). Its use in offerings (Numbers 5:15) and its symbolic role in Gideon's victory (Judges 7:13) show God working through common, humble means. Understanding barley enriches reading by highlighting themes of divine sustenance, valuation, and the dignity of ordinary life in God's economy.

In ancient Israel, barley was a fundamental grain, harvested in the spring (around Passover). It was less prized than wheat, often associated with poverty, animal feed, and rapid bread-making. Its use as a standard measure for land value (Leviticus 27:16) underscores its economic importance. This contrasts with modern views where barley is a minor crop, helping readers grasp the biblical world's agricultural and social hierarchies.

חִטָּה (ḥiṭṭâ, H2406) — wheat, a more valued grain often paired with barley. דָּגָן (dāgān, H1715) — general term for grain or cereal. כֻּסֶּמֶת (kussemet, H3698) — spelt, another type of grain (Exodus 9:32).

Word Details

Scripture References