### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rûwq**, represented by `{{H7324}}`, carries the core meaning **to pour out** or **empty**. It is a primitive root that appears 19 times in 19 unique verses. Its definition extends from the literal act of pouring to figurative concepts like casting out, and includes the idiomatic sense of arming for battle or drawing out a weapon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7324}}` is used in a variety of contexts, demonstrating its versatility. Literally, it describes clouds that **empty** themselves of rain upon the earth [[Ecclesiastes 11:3]] and the sons of Jacob as they **emptied** their sacks of grain [[Genesis 42:35]]. Figuratively, it conveys a promise of divine blessing so great it is **poured out** until there is no more room [[Malachi 3:10]]. However, it is most frequently used in a military context, signifying the act to **draw** a sword in preparation for battle or in judgment, as when God warns He will **draw out** a sword after a scattered people ([[Leviticus 26:33]], [[Ezekiel 5:2]]). The word can also mean to **arm**, as when Abram **armed** his servants to pursue his enemies [[Genesis 14:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H7324}}` is used:
* `{{H2719}}` **chereb** (sword): This word is a frequent object of the action of `{{H7324}}`. In passages of judgment or conflict, enemies **draw** their **swords** `{{H2719}}` [[Ezekiel 28:7]], and God promises to **draw out** a **sword** `{{H2719}}` after those He scatters [[Ezekiel 5:12]].
* `{{H2219}}` **zârâh** (to scatter): This term often appears in parallel with `{{H7324}}` to describe divine judgment. God declares He will **scatter** `{{H2219}}` a third part of the people into the winds and **draw out** a sword after them [[Ezekiel 5:12]].
* `{{H4390}}` **mâlêʼ** (to fill or be full of): As a direct contrast to emptying, this word provides a complete picture of an action. Clouds that are **full** `{{H4390}}` of rain then **empty** `{{H7324}}` themselves [[Ecclesiastes 11:3]], and the enemy's lust will be **satisfied** `{{H4390}}` before he draws his sword [[Exodus 15:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7324}}` is significant, often illustrating the execution of divine will, whether for blessing or for judgment.
* **Divine Blessing:** The most prominent positive use is in God's promise to open the windows of heaven and **pour out** a blessing upon His people for their faithfulness with tithes, signifying His overwhelming provision [[Malachi 3:10]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The act of "drawing out a sword" is a powerful metaphor for God's active, pursuing judgment against sin and disobedience. This is a recurring theme in the warnings given to Israel ([[Leviticus 26:33]], [[Ezekiel 12:14]]).
* **Human Depravity and Conflict:** The word is also used to describe wicked intentions, such as the vile person who works to **make empty** the soul of the hungry [[Isaiah 32:6]] or the enemy who boasts, "I will **draw** my sword" [[Exodus 15:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7324}}` moves beyond a simple definition of "to pour out." It encompasses literal acts of emptying, but more powerfully, it serves as a dynamic verb for divine and human action. It illustrates the stark contrast between God pouring out an immense blessing [[Malachi 3:10]] and the unleashing of judgment through a drawn sword [[Ezekiel 5:12]], showing how the act of "emptying" or "unleashing" can signify both ultimate provision and severe consequence.
TRV