### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rᵉbâbâh**, represented by `{{H7233}}`, signifies **abundance** in number, specifically a **myriad** or **ten thousand**. Derived from the root רָבַב, its meaning can be definite or indefinite and is also used for concepts like **million** or to **multiply**. This term appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses**, often to illustrate vast quantities that emphasize divine power or blessing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7233}}` is frequently used in contexts of military might and divine blessing. It is a key element in songs celebrating military victory, as when the women of Israel declared, "Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his **ten thousands**" [[1 Samuel 18:7]], a statement repeated multiple times and which provoked Saul's jealousy [[1 Samuel 18:8]]. The word also quantifies God's miraculous power, promising that a small number of Israelites will put **ten thousand** to flight ([[Leviticus 26:8]], [[Deuteronomy 32:30]]). Beyond conflict, it is a measure of immense blessing, as when Rebekah is blessed to become the mother of "thousands of **millions**" [[Genesis 24:60]] or when the Lord is asked to return to the "many **thousands** of Israel" [[Numbers 10:36]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scale and action associated with a "myriad":
* `{{H7235}}` **râbâh** (to increase, multiply): As the primitive root of `rᵉbâbâh`, this verb expresses the core concept of growth and enlargement. It is used in God's foundational command to "be fruitful, and **multiply**" [[Genesis 1:28]] and in His promise to Abram of an "exceeding great" reward [[Genesis 15:1]].
* `{{H505}}` **ʼeleph** (a thousand): This numeral is often set in parallel or contrast to `rᵉbâbâh` to establish a grander scale. This is seen in promises of protection where "a **thousand** shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand" [[Psalms 91:7]] and in the blessings that distinguish between the "**thousands** of Manasseh" and the "ten thousands of Ephraim" [[Deuteronomy 33:17]].
* `{{H7291}}` **râdaph** (to chase, pursue): This verb describes the action often enabled by the divine power that `rᵉbâbâh` represents. God's promise that a few will **chase** a thousand and put ten thousand to flight directly links the overwhelming number to the act of victorious pursuit ([[Leviticus 26:8]], [[Deuteronomy 32:30]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7233}}` is significant, highlighting God's sovereignty and faithfulness.
* **Divine Empowerment:** The concept of a "myriad" is used to show that victory comes from God, not numbers. A believer need not be afraid of **ten thousands** of people [[Psalms 3:6]] because God enables the few to overcome the many [[Leviticus 26:8]]. The Lord Himself is accompanied by "**ten thousands** of saints" [[Deuteronomy 33:2]].
* **Covenantal Abundance:** The word serves as a measure of God's fulfillment of His promises. Israel was caused to **multiply** [[Ezekiel 16:7]], and the blessing upon the tribes included the "ten thousands of Ephraim" [[Deuteronomy 33:17]], signifying immense national prosperity and strength under God's covenant.
* **A Measure of Incomparable Value:** `{{H7233}}` is used to express ultimate worth or to create a stark contrast. The beloved is praised as "the chiefest among **ten thousand**" [[Song of Solomon 5:10]], setting him apart as unique. It is also used rhetorically to ask if "**ten thousands** of rivers of oil" could please the Lord, emphasizing that extravagant sacrifices cannot replace justice and obedience [[Micah 6:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7233}}` is far more than a numerical value. It is a powerful biblical term symbolizing overwhelming force, the boundless scope of divine blessing, and a standard for immeasurable worth. Whether describing the **ten thousands** of enemies defeated by God's hand or the "many **thousands** of Israel" [[Numbers 10:36]], the word consistently points to a scale beyond ordinary human capacity. It illustrates how God’s favor fulfills promises of abundance and grants victory against impossible odds.