עָרוּץ

עָרוּץ

feared, i.e. (concretely) a horrible place or chasm

Definition

The Hebrew word עָרוּץ (ʻârûwts) is a noun meaning 'a fearful or dreadful place,' specifically describing a terrifying landscape feature. It refers to a chasm, ravine, or cliff that is so formidable it inspires horror and dread. This sense of a physically intimidating and dangerous location is its sole biblical meaning, as seen in its single occurrence in Job 30:6, where it describes the desolate ravines to which the outcasts flee.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in Job 30:6. It appears in Job's lament, describing the wretched state of those who are so destitute they are forced to dwell 'in the clefts of the valleys, in caves of the earth and in the rocks' (Job 30:6, NKJV). The term 'עָרוּץ' (translated as 'cliffs' in the KJV) characterizes these ravines as horrifying and dreadful places, emphasizing the utter desperation and social exile of the people being described.

Etymology

The word עָרוּץ (ʻârûwts) is derived from the root עָרַץ (ʻârats, H6206), which means 'to tremble,' 'to dread,' or 'to be terrified.' As a passive participle form used as a noun, it literally means 'a thing that is dreaded' or 'a terrifying object.' This etymology directly connects the physical place to the emotional response of fear it provokes.

Semantic Range

While used only once, this word contributes to the powerful imagery of the Book of Job, highlighting themes of human suffering, desolation, and social marginalization. It paints a vivid picture of the extreme depths to which people can fall, living in landscapes as terrifying as their circumstances. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Job 30 by emphasizing that the outcasts' dwelling is not merely remote, but is itself an object of horror, deepening the sense of their complete abandonment and misery. In the ancient Near Eastern context, desolate wilderness areas, ravines, and cliffs were often viewed with superstitious dread as haunts of demons or malevolent spirits. To be forced to live in such a 'horrible place' (עָרוּץ) was a sign of being utterly cast out from society and divine favor, existing on the literal and metaphorical fringes of the safe, inhabited world. גַיְא (gay', H1516) — A general term for a valley or ravine, without the inherent connotation of terror. מְעָרָה (mᵉʻârâh, H4631) — A cave or den, a place of refuge or dwelling, not necessarily dreadful.

Word Details