I. Name

The term Ariel occurs 16 times in different spellings in the OT and once in the Moabite Mesha-inscription (KAI 181:12, the suggested second occurrence in line 17 is doubtful). The meaning of the word is disputed among scholars. Regarding its etymology, several propositions have been made (cf. HALAT 84–85; Ges.18 98–99; NBL 167; ABD I 377–378 & lit), but only two of the suggested derivations seem to be applicable: 1. < ʾryh ‘lion’ with the theophoric element ʾl ‘God’. 2. < Ar. ʾiryat with afformative lamed ‘f…