עָקַד (a.qad)
a.qad
to bind
H:VQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:V
Word Overview
The Hebrew verb a.qad means simply to bind or tie something up. It appears only once in the entire Old Testament, in Genesis 22:9, during the account of Abraham and Isaac. The text uses it to describe how Abraham bound his son before placing him on the altar.
This single occurrence gives the word significant weight. By using a term for physical restraint, the narrative emphasizes the reality of the action and Abraham’s obedience. It is not a metaphorical binding but a literal one, highlighting the gravity of the moment.
Translators consistently render this word as "bound" or "tied." The simplicity of the verb contrasts with the complexity of the situation. It serves as a stark, concrete detail in a story that explores faith and sacrifice.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word עָקַד means to bind or tie something securely. It appears only once in the Old Testament, in Genesis 22:9. Here, Abraham binds his son Isaac on the altar. This simple action shows the reality of his obedience. He did not hesitate or hold back. The physical act of binding reflects a heart fully surrendered to God.
For your faith, this word reminds us that trust often involves letting go of what we hold dear. It is not about suffering for its own sake, but about placing our deepest loves in God’s hands. When life feels heavy or uncertain, remember that Abraham’s God provided a way out. He honors those who seek Him with honest hearts.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ he bound1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַֽ/יַּעֲקֹד֙1×
Key Verses
-
Genesis 22:9
They came to the place which God had told him of. Abraham built the altar there, and laid the wood in order, bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar, on the wood.
The verb describes the physical restraint of Isaac, emphasizing the concrete reality of Abraham's obedience rather than a symbolic act.