### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **raʼăshôth**, represented by `{{H7226}}`, is defined as a **bolster** or a pillow for the head. It is derived from the word for head, רֹאשׁ. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7226}}` is in the dramatic narrative of [[1 Samuel 26:12]]. In this event, David `{{H1732}}` and his men sneak into King Saul's camp at night. They find Saul asleep and take the spear and a cruse of water that were right at his **bolster** `{{H7226}}`. The scripture emphasizes that this was possible only because "a deep sleep from the LORD was fallen upon them," preventing anyone from seeing or knowing what had happened [[1 Samuel 26:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of this verse connects `{{H7226}}` to several important words:
* `{{H1732}}` **Dâvid**: Defined as loving; David, the youngest son of Jesse. He is the central figure who takes the items from Saul's side.
* `{{H2595}}` **chănîyth**: A lance or spear. This was one of the items David took from Saul's bolster, symbolizing the king's unguarded state [[1 Samuel 26:12]].
* `{{H3463}}` **yâshên**: Meaning asleep. The verse states that Saul and his men were all **asleep**, highlighting their complete unawareness.
* `{{H8639}}` **tardêmâh**: A lethargy or deep sleep. This supernatural sleep from the Lord is the direct cause of the camp's vulnerability [[1 Samuel 26:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7226}}` is tied entirely to its singular context, which illustrates God's sovereignty and intervention.
* **Divine Disarmament:** The Lord causes a **deep sleep** `{{H8639}}` to fall upon Saul and his entire camp. The **bolster** `{{H7226}}` marks the location of the vulnerable king, whose military might is rendered useless by God's action.
* **A Test of Character:** The scene at the **bolster** provides a clear opportunity for David to eliminate his enemy. By simply taking the spear `{{H2595}}` and water, he demonstrates restraint and trust in God's timing rather than his own strength.
* **Unseen Providence:** The verse explicitly states that no one **knew** `{{H3045}}` or **awaked** `{{H6974}}`. This underscores that God's work can be subtle and go unnoticed by those it affects, creating circumstances that fulfill His divine purpose.
### Summary
In summary, while the word **raʼăshôth** `{{H7226}}` is used only once, its role is pivotal. It marks the precise location of King Saul's vulnerability during a divinely orchestrated event. The **bolster** becomes the focal point of a scene that demonstrates God's direct intervention to protect David, test his character, and show the powerlessness of men when faced with a **deep sleep** from the Lord.
TRV