ʿēzer: the helper

In Genesis 2, as the Lord God - Elohim - looks upon his creation, he says: “It is not good for man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him.”

This verse can often be misused or misunderstood.

Oftentimes when we hear the term “helper” we think of a servant or assistant - a lesser than party made inferior to uphold the will of the other, more powerful or important figure.

This is far from the meaning of “helper” here.

It is the word ʿēzer in Hebrew, which can be used in a variety of relational contexts, but often implies a rescuer and ally.

ʿēzer arrives at the sound of a cry for help, not at the demand for it.

It's telling that this word is used to describe God in the Scriptures more than any mere person, again indicating it is a word of praise and strength, not inferiority.

The helper we see here is like that of a person who champions another person, who seeks partnership with them and who fights for their highest possible good, particularly in times of trouble.

When God says it is not good for man to be alone and he will provide a helper, he is declaring that his creation is better with harmonious variation and equitable distinction.

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