אֹ֫רֶב (o.rev)
o.rev
ambush
H:N-MQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-M
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun orev describes an ambush or a hidden place where attackers lie in wait. In the Old Testament, it appears only once in its literal military sense, referring to a physical trap set for enemies (Jeremiah 9:7). However, its primary usage is figurative, shifting from a physical hiding spot to the concept of treachery or deceit.
This metaphorical meaning suggests that sin often operates like an ambush—hidden until it strikes. Hosea uses the term to describe Israel’s internal corruption, where leaders conspire against one another in secret (Hosea 7:6). The word captures the idea of a betrayal that comes from within, concealed until the moment of attack.
Translators typically render orev as "ambush" or "treachery" depending on context. The shift from a physical hiding place to moral deceit highlights how biblical language often uses concrete imagery to describe spiritual brokenness. The word reminds readers that hidden intentions can be as dangerous as open warfare.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word orev describes an ambush or a hidden place where attackers lie in wait. In Hosea 7:6, it illustrates how sin often operates like a trap—concealed until it strikes. This metaphor reminds us that hidden intentions can be as dangerous as open warfare.
When we face challenges, this imagery encourages vigilance. It invites us to examine our own hearts for concealed motives and to trust in God's light, which exposes what darkness tries to hide. May you find peace in knowing that no secret is beyond His sight.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- in/ ambush/ their1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- בְּ/אָרְבָּ֑/ם1×
Key Verses
-
Hosea 7:6
For they have prepared their heart like an oven, while they lie in wait. Their anger smolders all night. In the morning it burns as a flaming fire.
This verse uses the term to depict internal corruption where leaders conspire against one another in secret, highlighting betrayal from within.