אֲרוּ (a.ru)
a.ru
behold!
A:IntjQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:Intj
Word Overview
The word a.ru functions as an interjection meaning “behold” or “lo,” serving to draw immediate attention to what follows. It appears only five times in Scripture, with the majority of occurrences found in the book of Daniel. In these contexts, it acts as a linguistic signal, preparing the reader for a significant vision or declaration.
Etymologically, the sources identify this term as Aramaic, deriving from the root al.lay, which carries the sense of “woe” or lamentation. While its surface meaning in translation is simply an alert to look, its linguistic roots suggest a tone of solemnity or awe. This connection implies that the attention it commands is not casual but weighty, fitting for the prophetic and apocalyptic nature of Daniel’s visions.
Translators typically render a.ru as “behold,” capturing its function as a pointer rather than a descriptive verb. Its rarity in the biblical text marks it as a specialized term, reserved for moments where the narrative demands a pause. By using this specific interjection, the text emphasizes that what is being revealed is critical and worthy of focused observation.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word אֲרוּ appears only five times in Scripture, almost entirely within Daniel’s apocalyptic visions. It functions as a sharp interjection, meaning “behold” or “lo,” designed to arrest the reader’s attention before a significant revelation. Its rarity signals that what follows is not ordinary narrative but a moment of divine unveiling requiring focused observation.
Etymologically, this Aramaic term connects to roots suggesting solemnity or even lamentation. This background adds weight to its use in Daniel. When the text says “behold,” it invites us to pause and recognize the gravity of the vision. It is not merely a visual cue but an invitation to engage with God’s sovereign plan, even when that plan involves complex or frightening imagery.
In your own life, this word reminds us that God often interrupts our routine to reveal truths we might otherwise miss. Whether facing uncertainty or seeking direction, we can trust that He provides clarity when we pay attention. The call to “behold” is ultimately a call to hope in His ultimate victory.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ lo!5×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַ/אֲר֣וּ2×
- וַ/אֲרוּ֙1×
- וַ/אֲר֤וּ1×
- וַ/אֲר֗וּ1×
Key Verses
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Daniel 7:2
Daniel spoke and said, “I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the sky broke out on the great sea.
This occurrence introduces the vision of the four beasts, marking the beginning of Daniel’s most famous apocalyptic sequence.
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Daniel 7:5
“Behold, there was another animal, a second, like a bear. It was raised up on one side, and three ribs were in its mouth between its teeth. They said this to it: ‘Arise! Devour much flesh!’
Here it highlights the second beast, a bear raised on one side, emphasizing the sudden and aggressive nature of this power.
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Daniel 7:13
“I saw in the night visions, and behold, there came with the clouds of the sky one like a son of man, and he came even to the Ancient of Days, and they brought him near before him.
This is the most significant use, introducing the ‘Son of Man’ coming with the clouds, a key messianic title in Christian theology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does אֲרוּ (H0718) mean?
Where does this word appear in the Bible?
Why is this word significant in Daniel 7?
Every Occurrence (5 verses across 1 books)
Daniel 5 verses
Daniel spoke and said, “I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the sky broke out on the great sea.
Daniel 7:5“Behold, there was another animal, a second, like a bear. It was raised up on one side, and three ribs were in its…
Daniel 7:6“After this I saw, and behold, another, like a leopard, which had on its back four wings of a bird. The animal also had…
Daniel 7:7“After this I saw in the night visions, and, behold, there was a fourth animal, awesome, powerful, and exceedingly…
Daniel 7:13“I saw in the night visions, and behold, there came with the clouds of the sky one like a son of man, and he came even…