עֹרֶם

עֹרֶם

a stratagem

Definition

The Hebrew noun עֹרֶם (ʻôrem) refers to a clever plan or scheme, specifically one that employs shrewdness or cunning. It denotes a stratagem, often with a negative connotation of craftiness or deceitful plotting. In its sole biblical occurrence in Job 5:13, it describes the 'schemes' or 'crafty plans' of the shrewd that God thwarts. The word captures the idea of calculated, intelligent maneuvering, typically to gain an advantage.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the entire Old Testament, in Job 5:13. It appears in the speech of Eliphaz, who is describing God's wisdom and power. The context is a poetic declaration that God 'catches the wise in their own craftiness' (or 'in their scheming,' עֹרֶם). The usage is negative, associating the word with the misguided cleverness of humans that is ultimately overturned by divine wisdom.

Etymology

The noun עֹרֶם (ʻôrem) is derived from the root verb עָרַם (ʻāram, H6191), which means 'to be shrewd, crafty, or prudent.' This root is also the source for the adjective עָרוּם (ʻārûm, H6175), meaning 'crafty' or 'shrewd,' famously used to describe the serpent in Genesis 3:1. The development from verb to noun shows a focus on the product of shrewd thinking: a crafted plan or scheme.

Semantic Range

This word, though rare, is theologically significant as it highlights a contrast between human and divine wisdom. In Job 5:13, it underscores the biblical theme that God sees through and frustrates the self-reliant, cunning plans of humanity (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:19, which quotes this verse). It serves as a warning against relying on one's own shrewdness apart from God's guidance, pointing to the supremacy of God's wisdom over even the most clever human stratagems. In the ancient Near Eastern wisdom tradition, shrewdness or cleverness could be viewed as a positive trait for survival and success. However, the biblical use in Job places this human craftiness in a divine courtroom, where it is judged as insufficient and ultimately foiled. The cultural understanding of a clever plan is thus reframed within the context of God's sovereign oversight and moral order. תַּחְבֻּלָה (taḥbulâ, H8454) — a more common term for 'plan' or 'counsel,' often in military or strategic contexts. עָרְמָה (ʻormâ, H6195) — another noun from the same root, meaning 'craftiness' or 'guile,' with a stronger negative connotation (e.g., Joshua 9:4).

Word Details