רָאַם

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word râʼam, represented by H7213, is a primitive root meaning to rise; be lifted up. It is a highly specific term in the biblical text, as it appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse. Its singular usage is found within a prophecy concerning the future state of Jerusalem.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H7213 is in Zechariah 14:10, where it describes a future divine transformation of the land. In this prophecy, the surrounding country will be turned into a plain, and in dramatic contrast, Jerusalem "shall be lifted up" H7213 and inhabited securely in its place. This context establishes the word's meaning as a sovereign act of elevation, setting something apart and raising it to a place of prominence and security.

Related Words & Concepts

The meaning of H7213 is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only context:

• H776 'erets (the earth... a land): This is the "land" that is leveled in the prophecy, providing a stark contrast to the city that is lifted up Zechariah 14:10.
• H5437 çâbab (to revolve, surround, or border): This describes the action taken upon the land, which "shall be turned" H5437 into a plain, emphasizing the dramatic change in the landscape Zechariah 14:10.
• H6160 ʻărâbâh (a desert... plain): This specifies what the surrounding land will become, a plain H6160, which serves to magnify the height and importance of the newly elevated Jerusalem Zechariah 14:10.
• H3427 yâshab (to sit down... to dwell, to remain): This word describes the outcome of being "lifted up." Once elevated, Jerusalem will be securely inhabited H3427 and will remain in its rightful place Zechariah 14:10.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of H7213 is entirely concentrated in its prophetic application to Jerusalem.

• Divine Exaltation: The word signifies a future, supernatural raising of Jerusalem, positioning it as the center of focus and honor. The action of being "lifted up" is a divine promise of restoration and glory Zechariah 14:10.
• Prominence and Security: The elevation of the city is directly linked to its security. By being "lifted up" H7213, it is also made to be "inhabited" H3427, indicating that its new status comes with stability and permanence.
• Topographical Prophecy: The leveling of the surrounding land H776 serves to physically and metaphorically remove all rivals to Jerusalem's prominence, making its exalted position absolute.

Summary

In summary, H7213 is a rare but powerful word whose entire meaning is defined by its single use in Zechariah 14:10. It does not refer to a simple or common rising but to a specific, future act of divine power where Jerusalem is supernaturally lifted up. This elevation signifies the city's promised restoration to a place of unparalleled prominence, security, and glory.