קָרֵב (qa.rev)
qa.rev
approaching
H:AQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 7 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:A
Word Overview
The Hebrew adjective qarev describes something or someone that is near or approaching. With only seven occurrences in the Old Testament, it appears primarily in historical narratives like Samuel and Numbers to mark physical proximity. It signals that a person or object has come close enough to be relevant or dangerous.
Unlike words for abstract closeness, qarev usually refers to tangible distance. In 1 Samuel 14:27, Jonathan’s eyes brighten because honey is near, showing how the word grounds spiritual or emotional states in physical reality. It often sets the stage for immediate action, as when enemies are described as approaching in battle scenes.
Translators typically render qarev as "near" or "close." The term carries a sense of immediacy, suggesting that what is near will soon be here. This concrete usage reminds readers that biblical language often ties spiritual truths to observable, physical realities.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Hebrew word qarev describes something or someone that is approaching or near. In the Old Testament, it often marks physical proximity, such as when enemies draw close in battle or when a person comes near to a sacred space. This concrete usage reminds us that biblical language frequently ties spiritual truths to observable, physical realities.
For your faith, this word highlights the immediacy of God's presence and the seriousness of approaching Him. It invites you to recognize that what is near will soon be here, urging a posture of readiness and reverence. Whether in times of conflict or worship, qarev calls attention to the tangible reality of being close to something significant.
Ultimately, this term encourages a mindful awareness of your surroundings and relationships. It suggests that closeness carries weight, whether it is danger, opportunity, or divine encounter. By paying attention to what is near, you can better discern God's guidance in the present moment.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 7 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- <the>/ approaching4×
- and/ approaching2×
- [are] approaching1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- הַ/קָּרֵ֖ב4×
- קְרֵבִ֥ים1×
- וְ/קָרֵֽב\׃1×
- וְ/קָרֵ֖ב1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 1:51
When the tabernacle is to move, the Levites shall take it down; and when the tabernacle is to be set up, the Levites shall set it up. The stranger who comes near shall be put to death.
This verse uses qarev to define a strict boundary around the tabernacle, showing that physical proximity to sacred space carries serious consequences.
-
Deuteronomy 20:3
and shall tell them, “Hear, Israel, you draw near today to battle against your enemies. Don’t let your heart faint! Don’t be afraid, nor tremble, neither be scared of them;
Here the word frames the psychological tension of battle, reminding soldiers that drawing near to enemies requires courage and trust in God.
-
I Samuel 17:41
The Philistine walked and came near to David; and the man who bore the shield went before him.
The term captures the growing intensity of the confrontation between David and Goliath, emphasizing the physical closeness that precedes decisive action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does qarev mean in the Bible?
How is qarev different from other words for 'near'?
Where does qarev appear in Scripture?
Every Occurrence (7 verses across 4 books)
Numbers 4 verses
When the tabernacle is to move, the Levites shall take it down; and when the tabernacle is to be set up, the Levites…
Numbers 3:10You shall appoint Aaron and his sons, and they shall keep their priesthood, but the stranger who comes near shall be…
Numbers 3:38Those who encamp before the tabernacle eastward, in front of the Tent of Meeting toward the sunrise, shall be Moses,…
Numbers 18:7You and your sons with you shall keep your priesthood for everything of the altar, and for that within the veil. You…