### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râbad**, represented by `{{H7234}}`, is a primitive root with the base definition **to spread** or **deck**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use describes the act of ornately furnishing a bed with luxurious coverings.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical context for `{{H7234}}` is in the Book of Proverbs, where it is used by the seductive woman attempting to lead a young man astray. She describes her elaborate preparations, stating, "I have **decked** my bed with coverings of tapestry" [[Proverbs 7:16]]. The action of "decking" here is part of a detailed scene of temptation, where luxury and sensory appeal are used to create an alluring environment for sin.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words used alongside `{{H7234}}` in its only appearance help to build a complete picture of the scene:
* `{{H6210}}` **ʻeres** (a couch... bed(-stead), couch): This is the object being "decked" in [[Proverbs 7:16]]. The term can refer to various beds, from a couch of languishing [[Psalms 41:3]] to the great iron bedstead of a king [[Deuteronomy 3:11]].
* `{{H4765}}` **marbad** (a coverlet; covering of tapestry): These are the specific items used for the act of decking. Interestingly, the same word is used to describe the coverings made by the virtuous woman in [[Proverbs 31:22]], contrasting a setting for temptation with one of righteous domesticity.
* `{{H330}}` **ʼêṭûwn** (fine linen): A luxurious material used for the bedding, emphasizing the opulence of the preparations [[Proverbs 7:16]].
* `{{H4714}}` **Mitsrayim** (Egypt, Egyptians, Mizraim): The fine linen is specified as being from **Egypt** [[Proverbs 7:16]], a place often associated in scripture with both wealth and the bondage from which God delivered Israel [[Exodus 13:3]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the context of `{{H7234}}` carries significant thematic weight within the wisdom literature of Proverbs.
* **The Intent of Preparation:** The act of "decking" is not a neutral act of housekeeping but a deliberate preparation for seduction. It illustrates how careful planning and resources can be marshaled in the service of folly and sin.
* **The Allure of Worldliness:** The items used to "deck" the bed—coverings, carved works, and fine linen from Egypt—point to an appeal based on worldly splendor. The passage serves as a warning against being enticed by outward luxury.
* **Wisdom vs. Folly:** The entire scene in Proverbs 7 is a classic biblical illustration of the path of folly. The use of `{{H7234}}` is central to painting a vivid picture of the trap being set for the simple and unwise.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7234}}` is a term with a very narrow and specific application: to lavishly furnish a bed. Its single appearance in scripture is powerful, providing a key detail in one of the Bible's most explicit warnings against sexual temptation. While not a broad theological term itself, **râbad** functions within its context to highlight themes of deliberate seduction, worldly allure, and the critical distinction between wisdom and folly.