Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: The name "Arom" is not directly mentioned in the canonical books of the Bible. However, it is often associated with the Hebrew root "arom," which means "naked" or "bare." This root appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament, often in contexts related to exposure or vulnerability. Biblical Context and Usage: While the specific name "Arom" does not appear in the Bible, the concept of nakedness, derived from the root "arom," is significant in several biblical narratives. One of the most notable occurrences is in the account of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. After eating the forbidden fruit, "the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; so they sewed together fig leaves and made coverings for themselves" (Genesis 3:7). This moment marks the introduction of shame and the awareness of sin into the human experience. The theme of nakedness is also present in the prophetic literature, where it often symbolizes judgment and humiliation. For example, in Isaiah 20:2-4, the prophet Isaiah is instructed to walk "stripped and barefoot" as a sign against Egypt and Cush, symbolizing their impending defeat and disgrace. Theological Significance: In a theological context, nakedness in the Bible often represents a state of innocence or purity, as seen in the initial condition of Adam and Eve before the Fall. However, post-Fall, it becomes a symbol of human vulnerability and the need for divine covering. This duality underscores the biblical narrative of redemption, where God provides garments of skin for Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:21), foreshadowing the ultimate covering of sin through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The concept of being "clothed" in righteousness is further developed in the New Testament. Believers are encouraged to "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:24). This imagery contrasts the spiritual nakedness of sin with the covering provided by Christ's atonement. Cultural and Historical Insights: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, clothing was a significant marker of social status and identity. The act of stripping someone of their garments was a profound act of humiliation and subjugation. This cultural understanding enriches the biblical metaphor of nakedness, emphasizing the depth of human need for God's redemptive work. Related Concepts and Cross-References: · Shame and Sin: The association of nakedness with shame is a recurring theme, as seen in the narratives of Noah (Genesis 9:20-23) and David (2 Samuel 6:20-22). · Divine Covering: The provision of clothing by God is a motif that appears in various forms, symbolizing protection and grace (Zechariah 3:3-5). · Spiritual Garments: The New Testament expands on the idea of spiritual clothing, urging believers to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience" (Colossians 3:12). Conclusion: While "Arom" as a specific term does not appear in the biblical text, its root and related concepts play a significant role in the theological and moral teachings of the Bible. The imagery of nakedness and clothing serves as a powerful metaphor for understanding human sinfulness and the transformative grace offered through faith in God. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia AROMa'-rom (Arom): The sons of Arom returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel (1 Esdras 5:16). Omitted in Ezra and Nehemiah. Hashum is found in place of Arom in Ezra 2:19. Strong's Hebrew 6174. arom -- nakedarom or arom. 6173, 6174. arom or arom. 6175 . naked. Transliteration: arom or arom Phonetic Spelling: (aw-rome') Short Definition: naked. ... /hebrew/6174.htm - 6k 6191. arom -- to be shrewd or crafty 6175. arum -- crafty, shrewd, sensible 6193. orem -- craftiness 6195. ormah -- craftiness, prudence Thesaurus Arom...AROM. a'-rom (Arom): The sons of Arom returned to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel (1 Esdras 5:16). ... Hashum is found in place of Arom in Ezra 2:19. ... /a/arom.htm - 6k Nakedness (50 Occurrences) Naked (56 Occurrences) Aro'erite (1 Occurrence) Aroma (50 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |