אֲתָרִים (a.ta.rim)
a.ta.rim
Atharim
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The noun Atarim is a proper place name appearing only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in Numbers 21:1. It denotes a location where the Israelites encountered conflict upon leaving Egypt. The term likely refers to a mountain pass or a caravan route, suggesting a strategic point along a travel path rather than a large settlement.
Its singular occurrence limits its theological weight, yet it anchors the narrative of Israel’s early journey through hostile territory. Translators typically render it simply as "Atarim," preserving the specific geographic reference without adding interpretive gloss. The word serves as a marker in the itinerary, highlighting the physical challenges faced by the community as they moved toward the Promised Land.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Reading through the ancient journey of Israel, we encounter small details like the name Atarim in Numbers 21:1. This word marks a specific spot where the path grew narrow and dangerous. It reminds us that the road to God’s promises often passes through places of tension and resistance.
You may face your own 'Atarim' moments—times when progress feels blocked by outside pressure or internal fear. The text shows that conflict is part of the journey, not a sign of failure. God did not abandon His people in this hostile pass; He guided them through it.
When you feel surrounded by opposition, remember that every step forward is recorded and known. You are not walking alone into the dark. Trust that the same God who led Israel through these passes is with you now, turning obstacles into opportunities for faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- the/ Atharim1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הָ/אֲתָרִ֑ים1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 21:1
The Canaanite, the king of Arad, who lived in the South, heard that Israel came by the way of Atharim. He fought against Israel, and took some of them captive.
This verse uses Atarim to pinpoint the exact route the Canaanite king monitored, showing how specific geographic knowledge shaped the conflict.