### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râṭôb**, represented by `{{H7373}}`, means to be **moist (with sap)** or **green**. This specific term is quite rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a vivid and focused image of life and vitality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7373}}` is in [[Job 8:16]], where it describes a flourishing plant: "He is **green** before the sun, and his branch shooteth forth in his garden." In this context, the word paints a picture of a healthy, well-watered plant thriving in the light. It symbolizes vigor and prosperity, illustrating a state of being full of life and moisture, essential for growth.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words from its surrounding verse help to build upon this image of flourishing life:
* `{{H3127}}` **yôwneqeth** ((tender) branch, young twig): This term for a sprout or young branch is a key part of the imagery. It is used to describe the hope for a tree that, even when cut down, its **tender branch** will not cease [[Job 14:7]].
* `{{H1593}}` **gannâh** (garden): A **garden** is a place of cultivation and growth. The Bible describes blessedness as being like **gardens** by the river's side [[Numbers 24:6]], reinforcing the idea of a nurtured and protected environment for life to thrive.
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (shooteth forth): This verb means to go or bring out, often translated as to **shoot forth** or spring out. It describes the action of growth, as seen when a man "cometh **forth** like a flower" [[Job 14:2]] or when a branch **shooteth forth** in a garden [[Job 8:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological meaning of `{{H7373}}`, though based on a single verse, is potent. It serves as a powerful metaphor for righteousness and divine blessing.
* **Image of Vitality:** To be **râṭôb** is to be full of sap and life. This stands as a clear biblical symbol for spiritual health and the flourishing that comes from a right relationship with God.
* **Life in the Light:** The plant is described as green "before the **sun**" `{{H8121}}`, which itself is used as a metaphor for God [[Psalms 84:11]] and the coming "Sun of righteousness" [[Malachi 4:2]]. This suggests that true vitality is found in God's presence.
* **A Nurtured Existence:** The setting of a **garden** `{{H1593}}` implies a place of intention, care, and provision. The state of being green and moist is not accidental but is the result of being planted in a place prepared for growth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7373}}` **râṭôb** is a highly specific term whose single biblical appearance powerfully illustrates a state of vitality. It means "green" or "moist with sap" and is used in [[Job 8:16]] to describe a thriving plant. This imagery becomes a metaphor for the life, health, and prosperity experienced under God's favor, showing how even the rarest of words can provide a deep and meaningful theological picture.
TRV