### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **reṭeṭ**, represented by `{{H7374}}`, denotes **terror** or **fear**. It is derived from an unused root meaning to tremble. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, highlighting its specialized and intense meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7374}}` is in the prophecy against Damascus. The city is personified as being overcome by dread, described as having "waxed feeble" `{{H7503}}` and turning to flee `{{H5127}}`. In this state of weakness, **fear** `{{H7374}}` seizes her, accompanied by anguish and sorrows, much like a woman in labor [[Jeremiah 49:24]]. The context illustrates a complete collapse of strength and courage in the face of impending judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its only context illuminate the nature of this fear:
* `{{H7503}}` **râphâh** (to slacken... be weak): Damascus first "is waxed feeble" `{{H7503}}`, creating a state of vulnerability that allows terror to take hold [[Jeremiah 49:24]]. God's command to "be ye strong" and not let hands be "weak" `{{H7503}}` stands in direct opposition to this state [[2 Chronicles 15:7]].
* `{{H5127}}` **nûwç** (to flit, i.e. vanish away... flee): The immediate reaction to the weakness and fear is to "turneth herself to flee" `{{H5127}}` [[Jeremiah 49:24]]. This word often describes the scattering of enemies or the wicked who flee when no man pursues [[Proverbs 28:1]].
* `{{H6869}}` **tsârâh** (tightness... trouble; anguish): This word is used in parallel with `{{H7374}}` to describe the experience of Damascus. The verse states that "anguish" `{{H6869}}` and sorrows have taken her [[Jeremiah 49:24]]. It signifies a state of deep distress or trouble, from which God is presented as a refuge and deliverer ([[Psalms 46:1]], [[Nahum 1:7]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7374}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage.
* **Fear as an Active Agent:** The scripture portrays `{{H7374}}` not as a passive emotion but as an aggressive force. The verb "seized" `{{H2388}}` used in conjunction with it in [[Jeremiah 49:24]] depicts terror as something that actively takes hold and overpowers its victim. This contrasts with calls for God's people to "be strong" `{{H2388}}` and courageous [[Joshua 1:9]].
* **The Precursor of Weakness:** The narrative in [[Jeremiah 49:24]] shows that Damascus "is waxed feeble" `{{H7503}}` before fear takes over. This suggests that a state of being weakened or slackened can be a precursor to being overcome by terror. God promises His people that He will not "fail" `{{H7503}}` or forsake them, preventing such a collapse [[Deuteronomy 31:6]].
* **A Vivid Portrait of Judgment:** The coupling of **fear** `{{H7374}}` with "anguish" `{{H6869}}` and "sorrows" `{{H2256}}` paints a picture of comprehensive distress. The simile "as a woman in travail" [[Jeremiah 49:24]] emphasizes that this is not a simple fright but a consuming, physical, and inescapable ordeal tied to divine judgment.
### Summary
In conclusion, **reṭeṭ** `{{H7374}}` provides a potent and specific depiction of overwhelming **terror**. Though it appears only once, its context within the prophecy against Damascus, surrounded by words of weakness, fleeing, and anguish, gives it significant weight. It illustrates a fear that is not merely an emotion but an active, seizing force that results from a state of feebleness and leads to complete collapse.
TRV