The Hebrew word rûwr, represented by H7325, is a primitive root defined as to slaver (with spittle), i.e. (by analogy) to emit a fluid (ulcerous or natural); run. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse, making its application highly specific within the biblical text. Its meaning is tied directly to the physical manifestation of a bodily discharge.
In its sole biblical appearance, H7325 is used within the purity laws of the book of Leviticus. The text establishes a condition of uncleanness by describing a man's physical state, stating, "whether his flesh run with his issue, or his flesh be stopped from his issue, it is his uncleanness" Leviticus 15:3. The term directly describes the physical symptom—an uncontrolled flow—that is a primary indicator for determining ritual impurity under the Mosaic Law.
Several related words from its context clarify the meaning and consequence of H7325:
- H2101 zôwb (a seminal or menstrual flux; issue): This word identifies the specific substance that "runs." It is the issue itself that is the source of the uncleanness described throughout the chapter Leviticus 15:2.
- H1320 bâsâr (flesh; by extension, body, person): This term denotes the location of the issue. The law is concerned with a discharge from the flesh, linking the physical body directly to one's ritual status Leviticus 15:2.
- H2856 châtham (to close up; especially to seal): Presented as the direct opposite of H7325, this word describes a discharge that is stopped. The law makes it clear that both a running and a stopped issue result in the same state of uncleanness Leviticus 15:3.
- H2932 ṭumʼâh (religious impurity; filthiness, unclean(-ness)): This is the resulting state caused by the condition that H7325 describes. The entire purpose of these regulations was to separate the Israelites from their uncleanness Leviticus 15:31.
The theological weight of H7325 is concentrated in its role within Israel's purity system.
- Defining Ritual State: The action of a bodily fluid that does run is a clear, physical marker for the spiritual state of uncleanness (H2932). It demonstrates how external, physical conditions determined a person's ritual standing in the community Leviticus 15:3.
- Order and Boundaries: The contrast between an issue that does run and one that is stopped (H2856) highlights a theological concern for order and control. Uncontrolled bodily flows represented a form of disorder that was ritually impure.
- Physical and Spiritual Connection: The use of H7325 illustrates the inseparable link between the physical body (H1320) and spiritual life under the Old Covenant. A bodily ailment required ritual atonement to be made right before the Lord Leviticus 15:15.
In summary, H7325 is a highly specific term whose single use is foundational to a key aspect of Levitical law. The word rûwr is not just a medical description but a term with deep ritual significance. It illustrates how the tangible, physical action to run was used to diagnose a state of uncleanness (H2932) that governed an individual's participation in the covenant life of Israel.
TRV