אֲרֻחָה (a.ru.chah)
a.ru.chah
ration
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun a.ru.chah refers to a specific portion or allowance of food, often translated as "ration" or "meal." It appears in only four verses, primarily within Jeremiah, II Kings, and Proverbs. The word describes the measured quantity of sustenance provided to an individual, rather than the general concept of eating.
In its biblical context, this term highlights the administrative aspect of provision. For instance, it is used to describe the daily bread allowance given to prisoners in the royal court (Jeremiah 52:6) or the specific diet assigned to Daniel and his friends (Daniel 1:10). This usage emphasizes that food was distributed according to a set standard or decree.
The root of the word relates to the idea of arranging or preparing, which aligns with its meaning as a prepared portion. Translators typically render it as "meal" or "ration" to capture this sense of a measured supply. The term underscores the reality that sustenance in ancient Israel was often regulated and allocated by authority.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When we read about rations in Scripture, it is easy to see only the cold mechanics of administration. Yet these passages reveal a God who cares for the specific needs of individuals, even when they are far from home or in difficult circumstances. The word אֲרֻחָה points to a measured portion, a daily allowance that ensures survival and dignity.
In Jeremiah and Kings, we see this provision given to Jehoiachin, a former king living in exile. Despite his loss of throne and freedom, he received a consistent supply of food. This detail reminds us that God’s care is not limited by our circumstances or status. He provides what is needed for each day.
This word invites us to trust that our daily needs are known and met. Whether we feel secure or uncertain, the same God who measured out bread for prisoners in Babylon measures out grace for us. We can rest in the knowledge that He sustains us with purpose and precision.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ allowance/ his2×
- an allowance of2×
- a portion of1×
- a food allowance1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַ/אֲרֻחָת֗/וֹ2×
- אֲרֻחָ֥ה1×
- אֲרֻחַת֩1×
- אֲרֻחַ֨ת1×
- אֲרֻחַ֣ת1×
Key Verses
-
II Kings 25:30
and for his allowance, there was a continual allowance given him from the king, every day a portion, all the days of his life.
This verse highlights the continuity of God's provision, showing that Jehoiachin received a daily portion throughout his life in exile.
-
Jeremiah 52:34
For his allowance, there was a continual allowance given him by the king of Babylon, every day a portion until the day of his death, all the days of his life.
Here the text emphasizes that the allowance continued until death, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to sustain him.
-
Proverbs 15:17
Better is a dinner of herbs, where love is, than a fattened calf with hatred.
Although translated as dinner, this usage connects the concept of a measured meal with the greater value of love over abundance.