### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rᵉchîyṭ**, represented by `{{H7351}}`, refers to a **rafter** or a **panel**. Its base definition suggests it is a panel that resembles a trough. This term is rare, appearing only **2 times** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7351}}` is in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]], where it describes a beautiful dwelling. The verse states, "The beams of our house are cedar, and our **rafters** of fir." In this poetic context, **rᵉchîyṭ** is used to depict the finely crafted overhead structure of a house, paired with other quality materials to create an image of love and security.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide architectural and material context for **rᵉchîyṭ**:
* `{{H6982}}` **qôwrâh** (beam, roof): Often translated as **beam** or **roof**, this word appears alongside `{{H7351}}` in the description of the house, indicating a structural component [[Song of Solomon 1:17]]. It is also used to refer to the protective covering of a dwelling [[Genesis 19:8]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house): This is the word for the **house** whose rafters are described. It can refer to a physical building or, more broadly, to a family or household, as in the declaration, "as for me and my **house**, we will serve the LORD" [[Joshua 24:15]].
* `{{H730}}` **'erez** (cedar tree): A strong and valuable wood used for the beams of the house in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]]. Cedar is often a symbol of strength and permanence, as seen in the promise that the righteous will grow "like a **cedar** in Lebanon" [[Psalms 92:12]].
* `{{H1266}}` **bᵉrôwth** (fir): The material used for the **rafters** (rᵉchîyṭ). Its use in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]] suggests a desirable and fitting wood for constructing a beautiful home.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H7351}}` itself carries limited theological weight due to its rare usage, its context within the "house" `{{H1004}}` connects it to broader biblical themes.
* **The Divine Dwelling:** The materials described, including the fir **rafters**, create an idealized dwelling. This imagery connects to the concept of the "house of the LORD," a place of beauty and communion with God [[Psalms 27:4]].
* **A Well-Built Foundation:** The description of a soundly constructed house with cedar beams and fir rafters evokes themes of stability and security. This parallels the idea that a spiritual house, or life, must be built by God to endure, as stated in [[Psalms 127:1]]: "Except the LORD build the **house**, they labour in vain that build it."
* **Symbol of a Covenant Relationship:** In Song of Solomon, the house is a metaphor for the love and union between the speakers. The quality of its components, like the **rafters**, reflects the preciousness and security of this relationship, which itself can be seen as a picture of God's covenant with his people, the "house of Israel" [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7351}}` **rᵉchîyṭ** is a specific architectural term for **rafter** or **panel**. Its single appearance in [[Song of Solomon 1:17]] places it within a poetic description of a beautiful and secure home built from fine materials. While not a major theological term on its own, its association with "house" `{{H1004}}` links it to significant concepts of divine dwelling, stability, and covenant relationship. It serves as an example of how specific, technical vocabulary contributes to the rich imagery of scripture.
TRV