Definition and Etymology:
The term "Ariels" is derived from the Hebrew word "אֲרִיאֵל" (Ariel), which can mean "lion of God" or "altar hearth." The name is used in various contexts within the Bible, often symbolizing strength, courage, or a place of sacrifice.

Biblical References:
The term "Ariel" appears in several passages in the Old Testament, each with distinct implications:

1. Isaiah 29:1-2, 7 :
"Woe to you, Ariel, Ariel, the city where David camped! Year upon year let your festivals recur. Yet I will besiege Ariel; she will mourn and lament, she will be to Me like an altar hearth. ... All the nations waging war against Ariel, even all who war against her and her stronghold and who distress her, will be like a dream, a vision in the night."

In this passage, "Ariel" is a symbolic name for Jerusalem. The prophet Isaiah uses it to convey both the city's significance and the impending judgment upon it. The reference to "altar hearth" suggests a place of sacrifice, indicating that Jerusalem will undergo a purifying trial.

2. Ezekiel 43:15-16 :
"The altar hearth shall be four cubits high, and four horns shall project upward from the hearth. The altar hearth shall be square at its four corners, twelve cubits long and twelve cubits wide."

Here, "Ariel" is translated as "altar hearth," describing the dimensions and structure of the altar in Ezekiel's vision of the new temple. This usage emphasizes the sacredness and centrality of worship in the restored temple.

3. 1 Chronicles 11:22 :
"Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a valiant warrior from Kabzeel, a man of many exploits. He struck down two champions of Moab, and he went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion."

While the term "Ariel" is not directly used in this verse, the concept of a "lion of God" is embodied in the character of Benaiah, whose bravery and strength are highlighted. The imagery of a lion often symbolizes divine power and might.

Theological Significance:
In the biblical context, "Ariels" carries a dual connotation of divine strength and sacrificial significance. As a name for Jerusalem, it underscores the city's role as both a center of worship and a focal point of divine judgment. The imagery of a lion, associated with the name, reflects God's power and protection over His people, while the altar hearth signifies the necessity of sacrifice and purification.

Historical and Cultural Context:
The use of "Ariel" in reference to Jerusalem during Isaiah's time reflects the city's importance as the heart of Israel's religious life. The prophetic warnings serve as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's commandments. In Ezekiel's vision, the detailed description of the altar hearth points to the restoration of proper worship practices after the Babylonian exile.

Interpretation in Christian Thought:
In Christian theology, the concept of "Ariels" can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Just as the altar hearth was central to the sacrificial system, Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is central to the New Covenant. The strength and courage symbolized by the lion are attributes ascribed to Christ, who is often referred to as the "Lion of Judah" (Revelation 5:5).

Overall, "Ariels" serves as a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative, representing both the power and the sacrificial love of God.

Appendices
... and female slaves, and devoted them to Ashtor-Chemosh. And I took from it the Ariels
of Yahveh, and tore them before Chemosh. And the king of Israel had built. ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/appendices.htm

Ariels (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ariels (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 23:20 And Benaiah
the son of Jehoiada, a fighting man of Kabzeel, had ...
/a/ariels.htm - 7k

Aright (14 Occurrences)

/a/aright.htm - 10k

Ar'i-el (1 Occurrence)
Ar'i-el. Ariel, Ar'i-el. Ariels . Multi-Version Concordance Ar'i-el (1 Occurrence). ...
(See RSV). Ariel, Ar'i-el. Ariels . Reference Bible.
/a/ar'i-el.htm - 6k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus