But Wellhausen 1 is probably right in taking the word as a contraction for Hagariah ("Yahweh hath girded"), just as Zaccai (Zacchaeus) is known to be a contraction of Zechariah.
The old Prussian capital girded itself at once to fulfil its new role.
The lamb thus drained of blood was to be roasted and entirely consumed by the Israelites, who should be ready with loins girded, shoes on feet and staff in hand so as to be prepared for the exodus.
It should be eaten with loins girded, shoes on feet, and staff in hand because in haste.
Thus we read in Vendidad xviii., " Many there be, noble Zarathustra, who bear the mouth bandage, who have yet not girded their loins with the law.