### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râchab**, represented by `{{H7337}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to broaden** or **make wide**. It appears 25 times across 25 unique verses in the Bible. The term is used in both a literal sense, referring to the expansion of physical space, and a figurative sense, describing concepts like deliverance, joy, and unrestrained desire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7337}}` is frequently used to describe God's blessing and provision. God promises to **enlarge** Israel's borders as they inherit the land ([[Exodus 34:24]], [[Deuteronomy 12:20]]). After finding a well that was not contested, Isaac declared that the LORD had "made **room** for us" [[Genesis 26:22]]. Figuratively, it describes deliverance from hardship, as when the psalmist cries out to God, "thou hast **enlarged** me when I was in distress" [[Psalms 4:1]]. The term can also carry a negative connotation, describing how a proud man **enlargeth** his desire like hell [[Habakkuk 2:5]] or how hell itself has **enlarged** herself to swallow the wicked [[Isaiah 5:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the concept of expansion and space:
* `{{H7344}}` **Rᵉchôbôwth** (streets; Rechoboth): This word is directly tied to an act of being made wide. Isaac named a well Rehoboth because he said, "the LORD hath made **room** (râchab) for us" [[Genesis 26:22]]. It signifies a place of broadness and relief.
* `{{H6509}}` **pârâh** (to bear fruit): This concept is presented as a direct result of having room to grow. In the same instance of naming Rehoboth, Isaac's declaration continues, "we shall be **fruitful** in the land" [[Genesis 26:22]], linking divine provision of space to subsequent prosperity.
* `{{H6310}}` **peh** (mouth): The mouth is often the object that is made wide. In an expression of triumphant joy, Hannah proclaims, "my **mouth** is **enlarged** over mine enemies" [[1 Samuel 2:1]]. Conversely, it is used in mockery and scorn, "against whom make ye a **wide mouth**?" [[Isaiah 57:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7337}}` is significant, often contrasting divine blessing with human sin.
* **Divine Provision and Covenant Fulfillment:** God's power to **enlarge** is a sign of His faithfulness. He enlarges borders as promised to the fathers [[Deuteronomy 19:8]], makes room for His people to thrive [[Genesis 26:22]], provides **large** pastures [[Isaiah 30:23]], and enlarges the steps of the righteous to keep them from falling [[Psalms 18:36]].
* **Spiritual and Emotional Capacity:** The word illustrates an expansion of the inner person. A heart can **be enlarged**, signaling a readiness to joyfully follow God's commands [[Psalms 119:32]]. An enlarged heart can also signify overwhelming joy and awe in response to God's redemptive work [[Isaiah 60:5]].
* **The Nature of Sin and Judgment:** Unchecked desire is portrayed as a dangerous enlargement. The greedy and proud **enlarge** their desire like the insatiable grave [[Habakkuk 2:5]]. In a direct parallel, hell itself **hath enlarged** its domain to receive the ungodly [[Isaiah 5:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7337}}` is a dynamic word that extends far beyond its simple definition of making wide. It serves as a powerful metaphor for God's action in the world, representing everything from the physical expansion of territory to the spiritual deliverance of a soul from distress. It illustrates how God creates space for blessing and life, while also warning that sinful desire, when enlarged, leads only to destruction.
TRV