or קֹרָה; from קוּר; a rafter (forming trenches as it were); by implication, a roof; beam, roof.
Transliteration:qôwrâh
Pronunciation:ko-raw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term קוֹרָה (qôwrâh), Strong's `{{H6982}}`, denotes a structural element in building, specifically a "rafter" or "beam." Its etymological root, קוּר (qūr), meaning "to bore," "to dig," or "to pierce," offers insight into the nature of these building components. This suggests that the rafters were perhaps shaped, cut, or fitted into prepared slots or "trenches," as the definition implies. By extension, קוֹרָה can also refer to the "roof" itself, as rafters form the essential framework upon which a roof is constructed. The semantic range is therefore quite focused on architectural timber.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term קוֹרָה (qôwrâh) appears in two distinct contexts within the Hebrew Bible, both consistently reflecting its core meaning as a building component:
1. **[[Nehemiah 2:8]]**: Nehemiah, seeking to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, requests "a letter also to Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall occupy." Here, קוֹרָה is translated as "beams," clearly referring to the substantial wooden timbers necessary for the construction of gates, walls, and a personal dwelling. This highlights the practical, functional aspect of קוֹרָה as a vital material for large-scale construction projects and personal habitations, indicative of restoration and establishment.
2. **[[Song of Solomon 1:17]]**: In this poetic verse, the beloved declares, "The beams of our house are cedars, and our rafters of fir." This passage uses קוֹרָה in parallel with another term for "beams" (רָהִיט, rahîṭ, often translated as paneling or carved work, though here it might also refer to structural elements). The verse speaks to the quality and beauty of the materials used in a symbolic "house," emphasizing the strength and fragrance of cedar and fir. This usage elevates קוֹרָה from a mere structural component to an element contributing to the aesthetic and enduring nature of a cherished dwelling, reflecting the ideal of a beautiful and secure shared space.
In both instances, the word consistently refers to the wooden supports used in building, whether for practical infrastructure or poetic imagery of a dwelling.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding קוֹרָה (qôwrâh) is enhanced by considering related terms and concepts:
* **Root קוּר (qūr):** While not a Strong's number itself, the verbal root from which קוֹרָה is derived signifies "to bore," "to dig," or "to pierce." This suggests the process of shaping the timber or fitting it into a prepared structure.
* **עֵץ (ʿēṣ - tree/wood, `{{H6097}}`):** The raw material from which קוֹרָה is fashioned. The specific types of wood (cedar, fir) mentioned in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]] highlight the quality and origin of these timbers.
* **בַּיִת (bayit - house/dwelling, `{{H1004}}`):** קוֹרָה is an integral part of a בַּיִת, forming its foundational roof structure.
* **גַּג (gag - roof, `{{H1406}}`):** The קוֹרָה serves as the underlying support for the גַּג, which provides shelter and protection.
* **עַמּוּד (ʿammûd - pillar/column, `{{H5982}}`):** Another essential structural element that works in conjunction with beams and rafters to support a building.
* **Building and Construction:** The broader biblical theme of constructing dwellings, temples, and cities, which often carries symbolic weight regarding divine provision, security, and the establishment of God's people.
### Theological Significance
While קוֹרָה (qôwrâh) is a concrete architectural term, its theological significance emerges within the larger biblical narratives of dwelling, security, and divine provision.
1. **Divine Provision and Establishment:** In [[Nehemiah 2:8]], the request for קוֹרָה (qôwrâh) for rebuilding Jerusalem's gates, walls, and a personal house underscores God's enabling hand in the restoration of His people. The provision of these essential building materials symbolizes God's commitment to re-establishing His people's security and presence in the land. It speaks to the practical means by which divine purposes are realized through human effort.
2. **Security and Shelter:** Rafters and roofs are fundamental to providing shelter, protection, and stability. In a broader sense, a secure dwelling often serves as a metaphor for God's covenantal protection over His people. The integrity of the קוֹרָה contributes to the overall strength and safety of a structure, reflecting the reliability of God's promises of refuge and peace.
3. **Poetic Imagery of Enduring Relationship:** In [[Song of Solomon 1:17]], the "beams of our house" being made of noble cedar and fir transcends mere utility. It imbues the dwelling with beauty, strength, and permanence, reflecting the enduring and cherished nature of the relationship described in the book. Here, the קוֹרָה becomes an image of the substantial, beautiful, and lasting foundation of love and intimacy.
Thus, קוֹרָה (qôwrâh), though a simple term for a building beam, subtly contributes to themes of divine care, the stability of community, and the beauty of cherished relationships within the biblical narrative.
### Summary
קוֹרָה (qôwrâh, `{{H6982}}`) is a Hebrew term primarily denoting a "rafter" or "beam," a key wooden component in building construction, and by implication, a "roof." Derived from a root suggesting the shaping or fitting of timber, its biblical occurrences consistently reflect this architectural meaning. In [[Nehemiah 2:8]], it signifies the practical timbers essential for rebuilding Jerusalem's infrastructure and private dwellings, highlighting divine provision and the establishment of God's people. In [[Song of Solomon 1:17]], קוֹרָה contributes to a poetic image of a beautiful, strong, and enduring "house," symbolizing the quality and permanence of a cherished relationship. While a literal term for a structural element, קוֹרָה therefore participates in broader biblical themes of divine enablement, security, and the enduring nature of both physical and relational foundations.
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