עֶרֶב

The Hebrew noun עֶרֶב (ʿerev) primarily denotes the evening or dusk. It describes the natural period when daylight fades and night approaches. This term can refer to the early part of the evening, just as the sun sets, or more broadly to the entire evening period leading up to full darkness. The concept of evening in ancient Israel was often tied to the conclusion of a day's labor and the start of a new one, as the day was sometimes reckoned from evening to evening.

In a theological context, עֶרֶב (ʿererev) frequently appears in conjunction with sacrifices and religious observances. Many of the prescribed offerings in the Old Testament were to be made "at even" or "between the two evenings," signifying a specific time for communal worship and individual devotion. This highlights the integration of daily life rhythms with spiritual practices, where the transition from day to night held ritual significance. The parallel use of "morning" and "evening" throughout the Scriptures emphasizes a complete cycle, whether of day and night or of continuous worship and service.

The word can also carry a more metaphorical or general sense of a time period, as seen in expressions like "evening wolves," which denote a time of predatory activity or judgment. However, its primary and most frequent usage remains a literal reference to the evening time. Its semantic range is generally consistent, encompassing all aspects of the daily transition from light to dark.