### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rᵉchôb**, represented by `{{H7339}}`, refers to a wide, open area within a settlement, such as a **broad place (way), street,** or avenue. It appears **43 times** across **41 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning "a width," the term denotes a public space central to city life, distinct from narrower paths or areas outside the walls.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7339}}` is depicted as a focal point for both community life and national crisis. It is a place of sacred assembly, as when all the people gathered in the **street** before the water gate to hear Ezra read the book of the law [[Nehemiah 8:1]]. It is also a setting for prophetic hope, with visions of old men and women dwelling safely and children playing in the **streets** of Jerusalem [[Zechariah 8:4-5]]. Conversely, it is often a scene of judgment and sorrow, where truth has fallen [[Isaiah 59:14]], children faint from hunger [[Lamentations 2:11]], and wailing is heard [[Amos 5:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the concept of public spaces and pathways:
* `{{H2351}}` **chûwts**: This word means **outside, outdoors; abroad, field, forth, highway, more, out(-side, -ward), street, without**. It often appears in conjunction with `{{H7339}}`, describing the general area "without" where Wisdom cries, while she specifically utters her voice "in the streets" (`rᵉchôb`) [[Proverbs 1:20]].
* `{{H7784}}` **shûwq**: Defined as **a street (as run over)**, this term is used alongside `{{H7339}}` to distinguish different types of thoroughfares. In [[Song of Solomon 3:2]], the search occurs "in the streets" (`shûwq`) and "in the broad ways" (`rᵉchôb`), suggesting a move from general streets to wider public plazas.
* `{{H1870}}` **derek**: Defined as **a road (as trodden)**, this term frequently takes on the figurative meaning of **a course of life or mode of action**. This contrasts with the literal, physical space of `{{H7339}}`, as seen when the wicked are called to forsake their "way" (`derek`) [[Isaiah 55:7]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{H7339}}` carries significant thematic weight, often serving as a barometer for the spiritual health of a community.
* **Public Square of Morality:** The `rᵉchôb` is where the moral fabric of a city is most visible. It is where judgment is sought [[Jeremiah 5:1]], where wickedness and deceit are found [[Psalms 55:11]], and where the consequences of idolatry are displayed [[Ezekiel 16:24]].
* **Arena for Divine Proclamation:** The public nature of the street makes it a key location for divine messages. It is where a king's honor is proclaimed [[Esther 6:11]] and, most importantly, where Wisdom makes her public appeal to the people [[Proverbs 1:20]].
* **Symbol of Judgment and Restoration:** The condition of the `rᵉchôb` reflects God's dealing with His people. A city under judgment has its young men fall in its **streets** [[Jeremiah 49:26]]. In contrast, a key element of the prophesied restoration of Jerusalem is that "the **street** shall be built again" [[Daniel 9:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7339}}` is more than just a physical location; it is the heart of public life in the biblical world. As a `broad place` or `street`, it functions as the stage for civic gathering, moral failure, divine judgment, and prophetic announcement. Its state—whether full of playing children or public lamentation—provides a powerful and visible indicator of the relationship between a people and their God.
TRV