אָבַס (a.vas)
a.vas
to fatten
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb avas means to feed or fatten, primarily describing the physical act of nourishing an animal until it is well-fed. It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Proverbs 15:17, where it contrasts a simple meal with the excess of a slaughtered ox.
In this context, the word highlights the value of peace over material abundance. The text suggests that a dinner of herbs shared in harmony is preferable to a rich feast derived from an animal that has been fully fattened for slaughter. This single usage underscores a preference for contentment and relational harmony rather than the pursuit of luxurious or excessive provisions.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word avas describes the process of fattenning an animal for slaughter. It appears only once in Scripture, within Proverbs 15:17. Here, it stands in sharp contrast to a simple meal of herbs. The text suggests that a dinner of herbs shared where love is present is far better than a fattened calf served with hatred.
This word reminds us that material abundance does not guarantee joy. A lavish feast can feel empty if the relationships around the table are broken. Conversely, a humble meal becomes rich when it is surrounded by peace and affection. We often chase after more, thinking it will bring satisfaction, but true contentment comes from how we treat one another.
Consider your own table today. Is there space for harmony? The pursuit of excess can sometimes lead to spiritual blindness, making us forget the value of simple kindness. Let this word encourage you to prioritize connection over consumption. May your home be a place where love outweighs luxury, finding rest in the peace that truly nourishes the soul.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- fattened1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אָ֝ב֗וּס1×
Key Verses
-
Proverbs 15:17
Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is, than a fattened calf with hatred.
This verse uses the word to contrast the emptiness of a lavish feast with hatred against the richness of a simple meal shared in love.