מַעֲרֹם

מַעֲרֹם

bare

Definition

The Hebrew noun מַעֲרֹם (maʻărôm) means 'bare' or 'naked,' specifically describing a state of being stripped or exposed. It is derived from the verb meaning to make bare or cunningly devise. In its sole biblical occurrence in 2 Chronicles 28:15, it describes the condition of Judean captives who were stripped of their clothing by the Israelite army. The word emphasizes a state of vulnerability and shame resulting from being deprived of basic covering and dignity.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the Old Testament, in 2 Chronicles 28:15. It appears in a narrative context describing the aftermath of a military defeat, where the victorious northern kingdom of Israel shows compassion. The word specifies the physical and social condition of the captives from Judah, who were 'naked' (KJV) or 'bare' as a result of being plundered. This singular usage highlights a moment of unexpected mercy and restoration in a time of war.

Etymology

מַעֲרֹם (maʻărôm) is a noun derived from the root עָרַם (ʻāram, H6191), which carries the primary sense of being shrewd, crafty, or cunning, but in certain forms (like the Niphal and Hiphil stems) can mean to make bare or naked. The noun form here focuses on the resultant state of being stripped or exposed. It is related to the adjective עֵירֹם (ʻêrōm, H6174), meaning 'naked,' but מַעֲרֹם emphasizes the condition brought about by an action of stripping.

Semantic Range

Though used only once, this word is theologically significant as it frames a powerful narrative of grace and covenant responsibility. In 2 Chronicles 28:15, the 'bare' captives are clothed, fed, and anointed by their Samarian enemies, who were moved by the prophetic word (2 Chronicles 28:9-15). This act reverses the expected outcome of war and reflects the biblical themes of compassion for the vulnerable (Deuteronomy 24:10-13) and the treatment of even an enemy as a neighbor. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading by highlighting the profound humiliation from which the Judeans were rescued, underscoring the transformative power of obedience to God's law in interstate relations. In ancient Near Eastern culture, stripping captives of their clothing was a common practice following military victory, serving to humiliate the defeated, display the spoils of war, and completely subjugate them. Being left 'bare' or naked was not merely a physical state but a profound social and psychological marker of total loss, vulnerability, and shame. It removed one's identity, status, and protection. The compassionate act of clothing the naked in 2 Chronicles 28:15 was therefore a culturally powerful gesture of restoring personhood and dignity, going far beyond mere charity. עֵירֹם (ʻêrōm, H6174) — The more common adjective for 'naked,' often describing a natural state (e.g., Genesis 2:25) or a state of destitution and vulnerability.

Word Details