### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râbab**, represented by `{{H7232}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to shoot an arrow** or simply **to shoot**. It is a very rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, but its usage highlights the idea of forceful projection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical appearances, `{{H7232}}` is used to describe two very different acts of projection. The first is an act of human hostility, found in Jacob's prophecy concerning Joseph, where it is said that "archers have sorely grieved him, and **shot** at him, and hated him" [[Genesis 49:23]]. The second instance describes a divine act of judgment, where God "sent out his arrows, and scattered them; and he **shot out** lightnings, and discomfited them" [[Psalms 18:14]]. This usage metaphorically applies the action of shooting to God's command over natural forces.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context and impact of the action of shooting:
* `{{H2671}}` **chêts** (an arrow): As the projectile itself, this word is intrinsically linked to the verb `{{H7232}}`. It is used to describe God's weapons in his divine intervention [[Psalms 18:14]] and is the weapon of the "archers" in the attack on Joseph [[Genesis 49:23]].
* `{{H1300}}` **bârâq** (lightning): This specifies the object that God **shoots out** in his act of judgment, equating his power over nature with the force of an arrow [[Psalms 18:14]]. It is frequently used to depict God's powerful and awesome appearance [[Exodus 19:16]].
* `{{H2000}}` **hâmam** (to disturb, drive, destroy): This word describes the result of God's action in [[Psalms 18:14]], where He **discomfited** the enemy, showing the chaos and destruction that follows His divine assault.
* `{{H4843}}` **mârar** (to be, make bitter): This term reveals the consequence of being targeted by archers. In [[Genesis 49:23]], the attackers **sorely grieved** Joseph, connecting the physical assault of being shot at to the experience of bitterness and affliction.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7232}}` is found in its contrasting applications:
* **Human Hostility:** The word is used in [[Genesis 49:23]] to describe a malicious human attack. It is paired with words for being "sorely grieved" `{{H4843}}` and "hated" `{{H7852}}`, painting a picture of unjust persecution aimed at the righteous.
* **Divine Judgment:** In [[Psalms 18:14]], the word is elevated to describe God's warfare against his enemies. God **shoots out** lightnings `{{H1300}}`, resulting in his foes being "scattered" `{{H6327}}` and "discomfited" `{{H2000}}`. This portrays divine intervention as a swift, powerful, and decisive act of judgment.
* **Metaphorical Warfare:** The use of `{{H7232}}` to describe God shooting lightning illustrates a key biblical theme: God's power over creation is His weaponry. Natural forces are depicted as arrows from His quiver, used to execute His will and defend His people.
### Summary
In summary, **râbab** `{{H7232}}` is a rare but potent verb for the act of shooting. Its two occurrences in Scripture establish a powerful contrast between the bitter persecution inflicted by human enemies [[Genesis 49:23]] and the overwhelming, decisive judgment of God, who wields the very elements of nature as his arrows [[Psalms 18:14]]. Though its base definition is simple, its application provides a dramatic illustration of conflict, both human and divine.
TRV