### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term H7269 (rogzâh) is a feminine noun derived from the root H7267 (ragaz), which signifies agitation, trembling, or quaking. As a feminine abstract noun, rogzâh denotes the *state* or *condition* of trepidation, trembling, or fearful agitation. It conveys a sense of deep disquiet, an internal disturbance that may manifest as physical shaking or a pervasive sense of dread. Unlike a simple shiver, rogzâh implies a profound, unsettling tremor, often associated with fear, distress, or oppressive circumstances. Its semantic range thus encompasses not merely a fleeting emotion but an enduring state of fearful disturbance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term H7269 (rogzâh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Isaiah:
* [[Isaiah 14:3]]: "And it shall come to pass in the day that the LORD shall give thee rest from thy sorrow, and from thy fear [rogzâh], and from the hard bondage wherein thou wast made to serve."
* In this prophetic oracle concerning the fall of Babylon and the restoration of Israel, rogzâh describes one of the oppressive conditions from which God's people will be delivered. The context speaks of Israel's suffering under Babylonian rule, characterized by "sorrow," "fear" (or "dread," "trembling"), and "hard bondage."
* Here, rogzâh refers to the pervasive state of fear, anxiety, and agitation that gripped the Israelites due to their servitude and the cruelty of their oppressors. It signifies the constant state of unease and physical/emotional trembling induced by their harsh circumstances. The promised "rest" is a divine intervention to alleviate this profound and persistent trepidation, bringing an end to the psychological and physical toll of their captivity.
### Related Words & Concepts
H7269 (rogzâh) is directly related to its verbal root and masculine noun form:
* H7267 (ragaz): The verbal root, meaning "to be agitated," "to tremble," "to quake," "to be disturbed." It can describe physical shaking due to fear, anger, or even divine power.
* H7268 (rogaz): The masculine noun form, meaning "agitation," "trembling," "rage," or "indignation." It often carries a connotation of anger or violent disturbance.
* **Other terms for fear/trembling:**
* H3372 (yir'ah): Fear, awe, reverence, often used in a positive sense for the fear of God.
* H6343 (pachad): Dread, terror, fear, often associated with sudden fright or overwhelming danger.
* H2729 (charadah): Trembling, fear, anxiety, often implying a state of alarm.
* H2731 (charad): To tremble, be anxious.
rogzâh distinguishes itself by emphasizing the *condition* or *state* of trembling agitation, particularly as a prolonged experience of distress under duress.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of H7269 (rogzâh) in [[Isaiah 14:3]] carries significant theological weight.
* **Human Suffering and Divine Deliverance:** rogzâh vividly portrays the depth of human suffering under oppressive regimes. It is not merely physical bondage but a deep-seated psychological and emotional torment, a constant state of fear and instability. The promise of deliverance from this "trepidation" underscores God's compassion for His afflicted people and His active intervention to alleviate their distress.
* **Contrast with God's Peace (Shalom):** The state of rogzâh stands in stark opposition to the biblical concept of *shalom* (peace, wholeness, well-being). While rogzâh denotes disquiet and turmoil, the promised "rest" from the Lord signifies a return to security, stability, and true peace, a gift that only God can bestow.
* **Consequence of Oppression:** The presence of rogzâh highlights the destructive nature of ungodly power and human cruelty. It is a direct consequence of the "hard bondage" imposed by Babylon, demonstrating the profound spiritual and emotional damage inflicted by sin and tyranny.
* **Hope in God's Sovereignty:** Despite the intensity of the "trepidation," the prophetic word offers unwavering hope. God's promise to give "rest" from rogzâh affirms His ultimate sovereignty over all human circumstances, even the most terrifying, and His faithfulness to His covenant people. It points to a future where divine justice will prevail, and the oppressed will find lasting peace.
### Summary
H7269 (rogzâh) is a powerful Hebrew term signifying profound trepidation, trembling, or fearful agitation. As a feminine noun derived from H7267 (ragaz), it emphasizes the *condition* or *state* of being deeply disturbed. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Isaiah 14:3]] poignantly describes the pervasive "fear" or "dread" endured by Israel under Babylonian oppression. This rogzâh was a constant, debilitating state of emotional and psychological turmoil caused by their servitude. Theologically, the word highlights the depth of human suffering under tyranny, serving as a stark contrast to God's promised *shalom*. Most significantly, rogzâh represents a condition from which God pledges ultimate deliverance, thereby underscoring His compassion, His sovereign power to bring rest, and His unwavering commitment to freeing His people from all forms of distress, offering a profound message of hope and divine intervention.
TRV