### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çelaʻ**, represented by `{{H5553}}`, refers to a **craggy rock**. Its root meaning suggests loftiness, and it is used both literally as a ragged rock or stone, and figuratively as a fortress or strong hold. It appears **60 times** across **54 unique verses**, illustrating its importance in describing both the physical landscape and theological truths.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H5553}}` is used to describe physical locations of refuge, provision, and dwelling. People hid themselves in **rocks** for safety when distressed [[1 Samuel 13:6]], and figures like David found shelter in the wilderness "into a **rock**" [[1 Samuel 23:25]]. It is famously the source of miraculous provision, as God commanded Moses to speak to the **rock** to bring forth water for the thirsty Israelites [[Numbers 20:8]]. Figuratively, it represents God himself, with David declaring, "The LORD is my **rock**, and my fortress" ([[2 Samuel 22:2]]; [[Psalms 18:2]]). Conversely, it can symbolize stubbornness, as when the people of Judah made their faces "harder than a **rock**" [[Jeremiah 5:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help build the concept of rocks, refuge, and strength:
* `{{H6697}}` **tsûwr** (rock): Often used interchangeably with **çelaʻ**, this word describes a cliff, boulder, or a figurative refuge. It appears alongside **çelaʻ** in descriptions of God's provision, such as bringing oil from the "flinty **rock**" [[Deuteronomy 32:13]].
* `{{H4686}}` **metsûwdâh** (fortress): This term for a fastness or strong hold is frequently paired with **çelaʻ** to emphasize God's role as a protector, as in the declaration, "thou art my **rock** and my **fortress**" [[Psalms 31:3]].
* `{{H2288}}` **chăgâv** (clefts): Signifying a rift in rocks, this word highlights **çelaʻ** as a place of dwelling and secret refuge, as seen in the phrase "that dwellest in the **clefts** of the **rock**" [[Obadiah 1:3]].
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (mountain): As a primary component of a mountain, the rock is often mentioned in connection with it. In a dramatic display of God's power, a strong wind "rent the **mountains**, and brake in pieces the **rocks**" [[1 Kings 19:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5553}}` is profound, serving as one of the most enduring metaphors for God's character.
* **Divine Fortress:** The word is repeatedly used to portray God as a secure refuge and a place of defense. David consistently refers to God as "my **rock** and my fortress" [[Psalms 31:3]], a safe place to which one can continually resort [[Psalms 71:3]].
* **Miraculous Provider:** The **rock** is a symbol of God's supernatural ability to provide for His people in barren places. He brings forth water from the **rock** to quench their thirst [[Nehemiah 9:15]] and even honey out of the **rock** to feed them [[Deuteronomy 32:13]].
* **Unwavering Stability:** Contrasted with "miry clay," the **rock** represents a firm and established foundation. God lifts people from the pit and sets their feet upon a **rock**, establishing their goings [[Psalms 40:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5553}}` **çelaʻ** transcends its literal meaning of a craggy stone to become a cornerstone of biblical imagery. It functions as a literal hiding place for people and animals, a source of divine provision in the wilderness, and, most significantly, a powerful figurative representation of God's strength, stability, and role as the ultimate refuge for His people. Its usage illustrates a deep connection between the natural world and spiritual truth.
TRV