עַקְרָב
aq.rav (H6137)
scorpion
AI Word Study
# The Hebrew Word for Scorpion (H6137) The Hebrew term *aqrav* simply denotes a scorpion, the arachnid creature. Based on its six occurrences in the biblical text, this word appears to function as a straightforward zoological term without specialized theological meaning. The word itself is concrete and specific, referring to an actual animal rather than serving as an abstract concept or metaphor in its basic lexical sense. The relatively limited number of appearances—just six instances across the entire biblical corpus—suggests that scorpions were either not central to everyday Israelite life or were mentioned only in specific contexts. Without access to the particular passages where *aqrav* appears, we cannot determine whether these references are literal descriptions of the creature, cautionary mentions of its danger, or symbolic uses in narrative or wisdom literature. What is clear from the lexical data alone is that the Hebrew Bible had a distinct word for this creature, indicating awareness of scorpions in the ancient Near Eastern context.
AI synthesis uses only provided lexicon data -- never training knowledge.
who led you through the great and terrible wilderness, with venomous snakes and scorpions, and thirsty ground where there was no water; who poured water for you out of the rock of flint;
Now my father burdened you with a heavy yoke, but I will add to your yoke. My father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.’ ”
and spoke to them according to the counsel of the young men, saying, “My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to your yoke. My father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.”
Now whereas my father burdened you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke. My father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.’ ”
and spoke to them after the counsel of the young men, saying, “My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to it. My father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.”
You, son of man, don’t be afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns are with you, and you dwell among scorpions. Don’t be afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they are a rebellious house.