### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rûwd**, represented by `{{H7300}}`, is a primitive root with a range of meanings including to "tramp about," "ramble," "have the dominion," "mourn," or "rule." Though it appears only **4 times** in **4 unique verses**, its application varies significantly, describing states of liberation, emotional distress, and authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The contexts in which `{{H7300}}` appears highlight its diverse meanings. In a prophecy concerning Esau, it signifies gaining freedom and power, stating that when he shall "have the **dominion**," he will break his brother's yoke [[Genesis 27:40]]. In a starkly different use, the psalmist expresses deep personal anguish, crying out, "I **mourn** in my complaint, and make a noise" [[Psalms 55:2]]. The word is also used to describe Israel's rebellious assertion of self-rule away from God, where the people say, "We are **lords**; we will come no more unto thee" [[Jeremiah 2:31]]. Finally, it describes righteous authority, noting that Judah "yet **ruleth** with God" in contrast to Ephraim's deceit [[Hosea 11:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H7300}}` in its specific contexts:
* `{{H5923}}` **`ôl`** (yoke): This word is directly linked to `{{H7300}}` in the context of liberation. Gaining dominion is the action that allows for the breaking of the **yoke** of servitude [[Genesis 27:40]].
* `{{H1949}}` **`hûwm`** (make a noise): Used in direct parallel with mourning `{{H7300}}` in [[Psalms 55:2]], this term emphasizes the agitated and tumultuous nature of the psalmist's disconsolate state.
* `{{H3585}}` **`kachash`** (lies): This word provides the backdrop for the use of `{{H7300}}` in [[Hosea 11:12]], where Ephraim surrounds God with **lies**, in contrast to Judah who faithfully "ruleth" with God.
* `{{H5647}}` **`âbad`** (serve): This term describes the condition of submission that precedes gaining dominion `{{H7300}}`. Esau must first **serve** his brother before he is able to break the yoke [[Genesis 27:40]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7300}}` is demonstrated through its varied applications, touching on themes of sovereignty, rebellion, and emotional expression before God.
* **Liberation from Bondage:** The promise to Esau illustrates that having dominion `{{H7300}}` is the key to breaking a physical or political **yoke** `{{H5923}}`, a powerful theme of deliverance [[Genesis 27:40]].
* **Rebellious Autonomy:** The word captures the essence of humanity's desire for self-rule apart from God. When the people of Israel declare "We are **lords**" `{{H7300}}`, it represents a rejection of the LORD's `{{H3068}}` authority [[Jeremiah 2:31]].
* **Righteous Dominion:** In contrast to rebellion, `{{H7300}}` can also describe a faithful exercise of authority. Judah's act of "ruling" with God highlights a form of dominion that is aligned with the divine will [[Hosea 11:12]].
* **Disconsolate Mourning:** The word's use in the Psalms reveals a deeply personal and emotional aspect, where to "mourn" is to wander restlessly in one's soul, expressing profound grief and complaint `{{H7879}}` before God [[Psalms 55:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7300}}` is a versatile term whose meaning shifts dramatically with its context. It can signify the powerful act of gaining dominion over an oppressor, the arrogant declaration of independence from God, the faithful execution of rule, or the restless wandering of a sorrowful heart. Though rare, each use of **rûwd** provides a distinct and potent image of the relationship between authority, freedom, and the human condition.
TRV