### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rêbets**, represented by `{{H7258}}`, denotes a **couch or place of repose**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is derived from a root word meaning to lie down, and it consistently signifies a specific location for rest, whether for people or animals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7258}}` refers to a place of security and rest. In Proverbs, it describes the protected "resting place" of the righteous, which the wicked are warned not to spoil [[Proverbs 24:15]]. It is also used in prophetic passages describing God's restoration. Sharon is promised to become a fold for flocks, and the valley of Achor a "place for the herds to lie down in" [[Isaiah 65:10]]. In a figurative sense, Israel is described as a lost flock that has "forgotten their restingplace" due to being led astray [[Jeremiah 50:6]], linking the concept of rest to a right relationship with God.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of a resting place:
* `{{H5116}}` **nâveh** (habitation, dwelling (place), fold): This word often appears alongside `{{H7258}}` to describe a physical home or pasture. It is used for the "dwelling" of the righteous [[Proverbs 24:15]] and the "habitation" of dragons that will be reclaimed [[Isaiah 35:7]].
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (flock): This term for a flock of sheep or goats provides the context for a pastoral resting place. God's people are described as lost **sheep** who have forgotten their resting place [[Jeremiah 50:6]], and Sharon will become a fold for **flocks** [[Isaiah 65:10]].
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (herd): Similar to tsô'n, this word for cattle or oxen specifies the type of animal finding rest. The valley of Achor is promised as a place for the **herds** to lie down in [[Isaiah 65:10]].
* `{{H1875}}` **dârash** (to seek or ask): The promise of a resting place is directly connected to the actions of God's people. The blessing in Isaiah is for "my people that have **sought** me" [[Isaiah 65:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7258}}` is tied to the concepts of divine provision, security, and restoration.
* **A Place of God's Blessing:** The promise of a "resting place" for flocks and herds serves as a tangible sign of God's favor and restored abundance for His people who seek Him [[Isaiah 65:10]].
* **A State of Spiritual Security:** Forgetting one's "restingplace" is used metaphorically to describe Israel's spiritual condition when they have gone astray from God, implying that true rest is found in closeness to Him [[Jeremiah 50:6]].
* **The Security of the Righteous:** The "resting place" is presented as the secure domain of the righteous, a place of peace that is divinely protected from the wicked [[Proverbs 24:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7258}}` moves from a simple definition of a place to lie down to a symbol of security and divine care. Whether it is the literal pasture where a herd finds repose or the figurative state of peace for the people of God, **rêbets** illustrates the biblical theme that true, secure rest is a blessing provided by God to those who are righteous and who seek after Him.
TRV