Strong’s H6203
עֹרֶף
Part of speech
Noun Masculine
Transliteration
`oreph
Pronunciation
OH-ref
Definition
Neck, back of the neck, stubbornness
Meaning
the nape, back of the neck, the back
Usage
The Hebrew word "oreph" primarily refers to the physical back of the neck. It is often used metaphorically in the Bible to describe stubbornness or obstinacy, particularly in the context of the Israelites' resistance to God's commands. The term "stiff-necked" is derived from this word, illustrating a refusal to turn or change direction, much like an animal that resists being led.
Bible references
Genesis 49:8;Exodus 23:27;Exodus 32:9;Exodus 33:3;Exodus 33:5;Exodus 34:9;Leviticus 5:8;Deuteronomy 9:6;Deuteronomy 9:13;Deuteronomy 10:16;Deuteronomy 31:27;Joshua 7:8;Joshua 7:12;2 Samuel 22:41;2 Kings 17:14;2 Kings 17:14;2 Chronicles 29:6;2 Chronicles 30:8;2 Chronicles 36:13;Nehemiah 9:16;Nehemiah 9:17;Nehemiah 9:29;Job 16:12;Psalm 18:40;Proverbs 29:1