יָרֵב (ya.rev)
ya.rev
`great`
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Yarev appears in the Hebrew Bible as a title for an Assyrian ruler, specifically identified with Tiglath-pileser III. It occurs only twice, in 2 Kings 15:19 and Hosea 5:13. The lexicon sources define it as meaning "contender" or "one who pleads a case," reflecting the aggressive diplomatic and military stance of the Assyrian empire during the divided monarchy period.
Its use as an epithet rather than a personal name highlights how Israelite prophets viewed foreign powers. In Hosea, the reference to Yareb underscores the political entanglements that drew Judah and Israel into conflicts with Assyria. The term captures the essence of imperial ambition, portraying the king not just as a ruler but as an adversary who challenges the sovereignty of other nations.
This rare word serves as a historical marker for the tension between Israel and its powerful neighbors. By using a name that means "contender," the biblical text emphasizes the confrontational nature of Assyrian rule. It reminds readers that the political struggles of the time were seen through a theological lens, where human power dynamics reflected deeper spiritual realities.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Yarev carries the weight of conflict and rivalry. In the Hebrew Bible, it identifies an Assyrian ruler known for his aggressive expansion. This word reminds us that human powers often rise through contention, challenging the peace and stability of nations. It reflects a time when Israel sought help from military might rather than turning to God.
For your faith, this word offers a sobering reflection on where we place our trust. When circumstances feel overwhelming, the instinct is to seek powerful allies or solutions that rely on force. Yet the biblical narrative shows that such alliances often bring shame and do not heal the underlying wounds. True restoration comes from acknowledging our need for divine care.
This passage invites us to examine our own sources of security. Are we looking to human strength to solve our problems, or are we willing to admit our vulnerability before God? The text suggests that relying on worldly power leads to disappointment, while trusting in the Lord offers a different kind of hope. May you find peace in knowing that God sees the struggles of nations and individuals alike.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Jareb2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- יָרֵ֑ב2×
Key Verses
-
Hosea 5:13
“When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah his wound, then Ephraim went to Assyria, and sent to King Jareb: but he is not able to heal you, neither will he cure you of your wound.
This verse explicitly links the name Yareb with the failure of political alliances, showing that seeking help from a rival power cannot heal spiritual or national wounds.
-
Hosea 10:6
It also will be carried to Assyria for a present to a great king. Ephraim will receive shame, and Israel will be ashamed of his own counsel.
Although the Hebrew text here uses a different term for 'great king,' this verse is included in the candidate list as a related context of Assyrian dominance, highlighting the shame that comes from trusting in such powers.