from the same as רַהַט; a panel (as resembling a trough); rafter.
Transliteration:rᵉchîyṭ
Pronunciation:rekh-eet'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term רְחִיט (rᵉchîyṭ), Strong's number `{{H7351}}`, is derived from the same root as רַהַט (rahat, `{{H7350}}`), which signifies a "trough" or "channel." This etymological connection provides insight into the semantic range of רְחִיט. While רַהַט refers to a hollowed-out or channeled object, רְחִיט extends this concept to an architectural element. Its primary meaning is a "panel" or "rafter," specifically one that might resemble a trough in its elongated, perhaps slightly concave, or channeled form. In architectural contexts, a rafter is a structural component that supports the roof of a building, often long and relatively flat or shaped, much like a panel. The term thus evokes a sense of well-crafted, supporting elements within a structure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word רְחִיט (rᵉchîyṭ) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, found in the poetic and symbolic language of the Song of Solomon:
* **[[Song of Solomon 1:17]]**: "The beams of our house are cedar, and our rafters of fir."
In this sole occurrence, רְחִיט (rᵉchîyṭ) is used in parallel with קֹרוֹת (qorot, `{{H6982}}`), meaning "beams." This parallelism confirms its function as a significant structural and perhaps decorative component of a dwelling. The context is that of a beloved describing a shared, beautiful, and secure abode. The choice of materials—cedar for beams and fir (בְּרוֹתִים, bᵉrôṯîm, `{{H1265}}`) for rafters—speaks to the high quality, aesthetic appeal, and durability of the construction. Cedar was a highly prized, aromatic, and durable wood, often associated with royal or sacred structures (e.g., Solomon's Temple). Fir, too, was valued for its strength and fragrance. The mention of "rafters" alongside "beams" contributes to an overall image of a well-built, stable, and pleasing dwelling place, emphasizing both structural integrity and natural beauty.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word to רְחִיט (rᵉchîyṭ) is its root cognate, רַהַט (rahat, `{{H7350}}`), meaning "trough" or "channel." This connection highlights the long, often shaped or grooved nature implied by רְחִיט.
Other related concepts and terms within the biblical lexicon often appear in architectural contexts:
* **קֹרָה (qorah, `{{H6982}}`)**: "beam," "joist," often used for main structural supports, as seen in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]].
* **עֵץ (ʿēṣ, `{{H6097}}`)**: The general term for "wood" or "tree," encompassing all timber used in construction.
* **בְּרוֹשׁ (bᵉrôš, `{{H1265}}`)**: "fir" or "cypress," the specific type of wood mentioned for the rafters in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]], often used for its strength and aromatic qualities.
* **בַּיִת (bayit, `{{H1004}}`)**: "house" or "dwelling," the overarching structure of which רְחִיט is a component.
* Concepts of building, construction, dwelling, and sanctuary are inherently linked to the architectural vocabulary that includes רְחִיט.
### Theological Significance
Given its singular occurrence in the Song of Solomon, the direct theological significance of רְחִיט (rᵉchîyṭ) is primarily derived from its broader context within that book. The Song of Solomon is often interpreted allegorically in both Jewish and Christian traditions, symbolizing the loving relationship between God and Israel, or Christ and the Church.
In this allegorical framework:
1. **The Dwelling of Relationship**: The "house" described with cedar beams and fir rafters can represent the secure, beautiful, and enduring dwelling place of the divine-human relationship. The "rafters" thus symbolize the structural elements that provide stability, beauty, and comfort within this spiritual abode. They are integral to the overall integrity and pleasantness of the shared space.
2. **Divine Craftsmanship and Provision**: While not directly referring to God's handiwork, the description of a well-built structure using precious materials implicitly points to order, intentional design, and the provision of good things. The "rafters" contribute to the sense of a complete and perfectly fashioned dwelling.
3. **Security and Rest**: The robust and beautiful construction, including the rafters, evokes a sense of security, peace, and rest for the inhabitants. This can be understood as a metaphor for the spiritual security and rest found in a covenant relationship with God. The components of the "house" contribute to a place of refuge and intimacy.
### Summary
The Hebrew word רְחִיט (rᵉchîyṭ, `{{H7351}}`) signifies a "panel" or "rafter," deriving its meaning from a root associated with "troughs" or "channels," suggesting a long, shaped piece of wood. Its sole biblical appearance is in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]], where it describes the "rafters of fir" in a beloved's house, alongside "beams of cedar." This context highlights its role as a key structural and aesthetic component of a well-built, beautiful, and secure dwelling. Theologically, within the allegorical interpretations of the Song of Solomon, רְחִיט contributes to the imagery of a stable, beautiful, and secure spiritual dwelling, symbolizing the enduring and comforting nature of the divine relationship and the meticulous provision that sustains it.
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