עֶרְיָה
er.yah
nakedness
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Hebrew word "עֶרְיָה" (er.yah) has a straightforward definition: nakedness. Its sole semantic domain is related to clothing and textiles, indicating that its meaning is highly specific. This term is used six times throughout the Hebrew Bible. Analyzing its occurrences suggests that "עֶרְיָה" refers to a state of being exposed or uncovered, often in a private or intimate context. The word does not connote shame or moral judgment, but rather denotes a literal absence of clothing. Its significance lies in its specificity, emphasizing the physical aspect of being naked, rather than any abstract or metaphorical interpretation. In the Hebrew Bible, "עֶרְיָה" appears to be a basic descriptor for a person's physical state, without any additional connotations or secondary meanings.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
6 total occurrences across the text
I caused you to multiply as that which grows in the field, and you increased and grew great, and you attained to excellent ornament. Your breasts were formed, and your hair grew; yet you were naked and bare.
Ezekiel 16:22In all your abominations and your prostitution you have not remembered the days of your youth, when you were naked and bare, and were wallowing in your blood.
Ezekiel 16:39I will also give you into their hand, and they will throw down your vaulted place, and break down your lofty places. They will strip you of your clothes, and take your beautiful jewels. They will leave you naked and bare.
Ezekiel 23:29They will deal with you in hatred, and will take away all your labor, and will leave you naked and bare. The nakedness of your prostitution will be uncovered, both your lewdness and your prostitution.
Micah 1:11Pass on, inhabitant of Shaphir, in nakedness and shame. The inhabitant of Zaanan won’t come out. The wailing of Beth Ezel will take from you his protection.
Habakkuk 3:9You uncovered your bow. You called for your sworn arrows. You split the earth with rivers.