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H2220 · Hebrew · Old Testament
זְרוֹעַ
zeroa
Noun, masculine/feminine
arm, shoulder, strength, power

Definition

Zeroa is the word for arm or shoulder, frequently used as a powerful metaphor for strength, might, and power. Just as the arm is the instrument of action and force, zeroa came to symbolize the powerful action of God in history. In Deuteronomy and the Psalms, God's 'outstretched arm' (zeroa netuyah) became a standard phrase describing the Exodus deliverance.

Usage & Theological Significance

The 'arm of the Lord' is one of the most potent theological images in Scripture. Isaiah 53:1 asks 'to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?' — then answers that the Servant Himself is the arm of the Lord made flesh. The New Testament echoes this: Christ is the power of God (1 Cor 1:24). To trust God's arm is to trust His ability to act decisively in history. The church is called to lean not on human strength but on the outstretched arm of God.

Key Bible Verses

Deuteronomy 4:34 Has any god ever tried to take for himself one nation out of another nation... by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm [zeroa]?
Isaiah 53:1 Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm [zeroa] of the LORD been revealed?
Psalm 44:3 It was not by their sword that they won the land... it was your right hand, your arm [zeroa], and the light of your face.
Isaiah 40:11 He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms [zeroa] and carries them close to his heart.
Jeremiah 32:17 Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and earth by your great power and outstretched arm [zeroa]. Nothing is too hard for you.

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External Resources

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