### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rôchab**, represented by `{{H7341}}`, is a term used to denote **width**. Derived from the root רָחַב (râchab), its meaning encompasses breadth, largeness, thickness, and wideness, applied in both literal and figurative senses. This word appears **101 times** across **89 unique verses**, primarily in contexts involving physical measurements and dimensions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical texts, `{{H7341}}` is frequently used to specify the precise dimensions of sacred objects and structures. For instance, the altar of burnt offering was constructed with a **breadth** of five cubits [[Exodus 27:1]], making it foursquare. The mercy seat was also given specific measurements, with a **breadth** of a cubit and a half [[Exodus 25:17]]. The term is also applied to land, as when God commands a walk through the length and **breadth** of the promised land [[Genesis 13:17]]. Figuratively, it describes an abundance of wisdom and understanding, as when God gave Solomon "largeness of heart" [[1 Kings 4:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the concept of dimension and space:
* `{{H7337}}` **râchab**: As the primitive root of `{{H7341}}`, this word means to broaden, enlarge, or make wide. It is used to describe the enlarging of the side chambers of the house in Ezekiel's vision [[Ezekiel 41:7]].
* `{{H753}}` **'ôrek**: This word for **length** is the natural counterpart to `{{H7341}}` and is often used alongside it to provide complete dimensions, such as for the Ark of the Covenant [[Exodus 37:1]] or the land of Israel [[Genesis 13:17]].
* `{{H6967}}` **qôwmâh**: Meaning **height**, this term is frequently paired with length and breadth to describe the three-dimensional size of objects like Noah's ark [[Genesis 6:15]] and the altar of burnt offering [[Exodus 38:1]].
* `{{H520}}` **'ammâh**: This word for **cubit** is the standard unit of measure used in most instances where `{{H7341}}` appears, establishing the scale for architectural and territorial descriptions [[Deuteronomy 3:11]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7341}}` extends from the literal to the theological.
* **Divine Order and Precision:** The extensive use of **rôchab** in the detailed blueprints for the Tabernacle and Temple demonstrates a divine emphasis on order, precision, and the holiness of consecrated space. Every dimension, including the **breadth** of the court [[Exodus 27:13]] and the oracle [[1 Kings 6:20]], was deliberate.
* **Scope of Covenant Promise:** The **breadth** of the land is a key element in God's promise to his people, defining the vast scope of their inheritance [[Genesis 13:17]]. In Ezekiel's vision, the **breadth** of the holy oblation defines the portion set apart for the LORD [[Ezekiel 45:1]].
* **Figurative Capacity:** The phrase "largeness of heart" connects **rôchab** directly to intellectual and spiritual capacity. It signifies a profound wisdom and understanding given by God to Solomon, as vast as the sand on the seashore [[1 Kings 4:29]].
* **Extent of Divine Sovereignty:** In Isaiah, the "stretching out of his wings" fills the **breadth** of the land of Immanuel, illustrating how the scope of divine presence and judgment covers the entirety of the promised territory [[Isaiah 8:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7341}}` **rôchab** is a fundamental word for establishing physical dimension in scripture. While its primary role is literal—defining the **breadth** of everything from altars and buildings to the promised land itself—it also carries the powerful figurative meaning of intellectual and spiritual vastness. It illustrates how God's plans are detailed and specific, while His wisdom and promises are immeasurably broad.
TRV