a primitive root; to pour out (literally or figuratively), i.e. empty; [idiom] arm, cast out, draw (out), (make) empty, pour forth (out).
Transliteration:rûwq
Pronunciation:rook
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma H7324 (רוּק, *rûwq*) is a primitive root, conveying the core meaning of "to pour out" or "to empty." This fundamental action can manifest in both literal and figurative senses. Literally, it refers to the act of emptying a container or drawing something out from within. Figuratively, its semantic range extends to concepts of making desolate, casting out, or even the forceful drawing forth of a weapon. The underlying idea is a transition from a state of fullness or presence to one of emptiness or absence, often with an implication of intentionality or force. The idiomatic uses, such as "arm" (meaning to draw a sword) or "cast out," highlight a directed expulsion or removal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The root H7324 appears in various contexts throughout the Old Testament, illustrating its diverse applications:
* **Military and Conflict:** A prominent usage is the "drawing out" of a sword or weapon, signifying preparation for battle or the execution of judgment. For instance, in [[Exodus 15:9]], the enemy boasts, "My hand shall destroy them," implying the drawing of a sword. Similarly, [[Leviticus 26:33]] and [[Ezekiel 5:12]] speak of God "drawing out a sword" after His people as a consequence of disobedience, indicating divine judgment through warfare. This usage emphasizes a decisive and often violent action.
* **Judgment and Desolation:** The word is frequently employed to describe the act of pouring out divine wrath or the resulting state of emptiness and desolation. [[Psalm 75:8]] speaks of God pouring out a cup of judgment, "For in the hand of the LORD there is a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he pours out of the same." This signifies the complete and unavoidable execution of divine justice. In [[Nahum 2:10]], Nineveh is described as "empty, and void, and waste," depicting the utter destruction and desolation that befalls the city.
* **Lack of Refinement or Stability:** [[Jeremiah 48:11]] uses H7324 in a unique way to describe Moab: "Moab has been at ease from his youth, and he has settled on his lees, and has not been emptied from vessel to vessel." Here, "emptied from vessel to vessel" refers to the process of decanting wine, which refines it by separating it from its dregs. Thus, Moab's lack of being "emptied" implies a state of complacency, unrefined character, and an absence of the trials or purifications that might have brought about maturity or change.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "emptying" or "pouring out" is echoed in other Hebrew terms, though each carries distinct nuances:
* **Words for Pouring/Shedding:**
* `{{H8210}}` (שָׁפַךְ, *shapakh*): "to pour out, shed," often used for shedding blood, water, or wrath ([[Genesis 9:6]], [[Psalm 62:8]]). While similar in outcome, H8210 focuses more on the act of effusion.
* `{{H5140}}` (נָזַל, *nazal*): "to flow, trickle," often for water or tears ([[Psalm 78:16]]).
* **Words for Emptiness/Void:**
* `{{H922}}` (בֹּהוּ, *bohu*): "emptiness, void," typically used in conjunction with `{{H8414}}` ([[Genesis 1:2]]).
* `{{H8414}}` (תֹּהוּ, *tohu*): "formlessness, emptiness, confusion," as in the primordial state of the earth ([[Genesis 1:2]]).
* `{{H1196}}` (בָּקַק, *baqaq*): "to empty, lay waste," often describing the desolation of cities or lands ([[Isaiah 24:1]]). This word is very close in meaning and often appears in parallel with H7324 or similar concepts of desolation.
* **Theological Concepts:**
* **Divine Judgment:** The act of "emptying" or "pouring out" is a powerful metaphor for God's judgment, signifying a complete and devastating consequence.
* **Desolation and Ruin:** The resulting state of being "empty" highlights the devastating effects of divine wrath or the consequences of human sin.
* **Refinement and Trial:** As seen in [[Jeremiah 48:11]], the absence of "emptying" can imply a lack of necessary trials or processes that lead to spiritual or moral refinement.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H7324 is profound, primarily underscoring God's **active sovereignty and unwavering justice**. When God "pours out" judgment or "draws out" His sword, it is a deliberate and forceful act of divine will, demonstrating His ultimate control over nations and individuals. This is not a passive withdrawal but an intentional intervention in human affairs to bring about righteous retribution for sin and disobedience.
Furthermore, the concept of "emptying" serves as a stark reminder of the **consequences of covenant unfaithfulness**. A land or people described as "empty" or "void" signifies the removal of divine blessing, protection, and inhabitants, resulting in utter desolation. This serves as a powerful warning against rebellion and a testament to the seriousness of breaking faith with God.
In the case of Moab ([[Jeremiah 48:11]]), the lack of being "emptied from vessel to vessel" highlights the danger of spiritual stagnation and complacency. It suggests that trials and periods of "emptying" can be necessary, albeit painful, processes for purification, growth, and the prevention of spiritual decay. While the Old Testament usage primarily focuses on external acts of emptying or a resultant state of desolation, the underlying principle of being made "empty" can, in a broader sense, prepare one for a new filling or divine purpose, though this is more explicitly developed in New Testament concepts like `{{G2758}}` (κενόω, *kenoo*) in [[Philippians 2:7]].
### Summary
The Hebrew root H7324 (רוּק, *rûwq*) carries the core meaning of "to pour out" or "to empty." Its semantic breadth encompasses literal actions like emptying a container or drawing a weapon, as well as profound figurative applications. In biblical contexts, H7324 frequently describes decisive acts of divine judgment, such as the pouring out of wrath or the drawing of God's sword against unfaithful nations. It also vividly portrays the resultant state of desolation and void that befalls those who face divine retribution. Theologically, H7324 powerfully affirms God's active sovereignty and unwavering justice, demonstrating His intentional intervention to bring about consequences for sin. It also subtly points to the necessity of trials and "emptying" experiences for refinement and growth, preventing spiritual complacency and stagnation.
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