אֲרִיךְ (a.rakh)
a.rakh
be proper
A:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- A:V
Word Overview
The Aramaic verb arikh means to be fitting or proper, appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible at Ezra 4:14. In this specific context, royal officials describe their relationship with the king as "proper," emphasizing that they owe no tribute, toll, or custom to him beyond what is already established by law.
This word is a variant of the Hebrew arakh, which generally means to be long or prolonged. Here, the sense shifts from physical length to appropriateness, suggesting that their loyalty and service are measured correctly according to precedent. The term highlights a legal standard rather than an emotional bond, framing political duty as a matter of established right.
Its rarity in Scripture makes this single instance significant for understanding administrative language in the Persian period. Translators typically render it "proper" or "fitting," capturing the idea that the subjects are fulfilling their obligations exactly as required, without excess or deficiency.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word אֲרִיךְ (a.rakh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in Ezra 4:14. Here, it conveys the idea of what is fitting or proper. In this historical context, officials describe their duty to the king as a matter of established law and correct proportion. They are not acting out of emotional loyalty alone, but because it is right according to precedent.
For your faith, this rare term reminds us that obedience often involves recognizing what is fitting in every situation. It is not about excess, nor deficiency, but about aligning our actions with what is truly appropriate before God and those we serve. This kind of measured duty reflects a heart that respects order and truth.
When you seek to live faithfully, consider how this word invites you to act with integrity. Doing what is proper may not always be the easiest path, but it honors both God and neighbor. Let this example encourage you to pursue balance in your own duties, trusting that right action brings peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- [is] proper1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- אֲֽרִֽיךְ1×
Key Verses
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Ezra 4:14
Now because we eat the salt of the palace and it is not appropriate for us to see the king’s dishonor, therefore we have sent and informed the king,
This verse uses the word to define a legal boundary of loyalty, showing that proper duty means serving without overstepping established limits.