The Hebrew word rak, represented by H7390, describes that which is tender, soft, or weak. It appears 16 times across 16 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning ranges from literal tenderness, such as that of a young animal or person, to the figurative weakness of a faint heart or the gentleness of a soft answer.
In the biblical narrative, H7390 is used to convey a variety of conditions. It describes physical tenderness, as when Abraham prepared a calf that was "tender and good" for his guests Genesis 18:7, or when Jacob noted that his children were tender Genesis 33:13. It also signifies youth and inexperience, as David repeatedly described his son Solomon as "young and tender" in the face of the great task of building the temple (1 Chronicles 22:5, 1 Chronicles 29:1). Figuratively, the word is used to denote weakness or a lack of fortitude. A king may feel weak 2 Samuel 3:39, and soldiers who are "fearful and fainthearted" are instructed to return home Deuteronomy 20:8. Conversely, it illustrates the power of gentleness, where a "soft answer" turns away wrath Proverbs 15:1 and a "soft tongue" can break a bone Proverbs 25:15.
Several related words help clarify the meaning of H7390:
- H3824 lêbâb (heart): This word is often paired with H7390 to describe an emotional state. It appears in the phrase "tenderhearted" or "fainthearted" to describe those who lack courage for battle Deuteronomy 20:8 or leadership 2 Chronicles 13:7.
- H5288 naʻar (young man): This term is used alongside H7390 to emphasize the vulnerability of youth, particularly in the case of Solomon, who is described as "young and tender" 1 Chronicles 22:5.
- H6028 ʻânôg (delicate): Often appearing with H7390, this word reinforces a state of softness and luxury. Babylon is warned it will no longer be called "tender and delicate" Isaiah 47:1, and during times of judgment, even the most "tender and delicate" person will become cruel (Deuteronomy 28:54, Deuteronomy 28:56).
- H2388 châzaq (to be strong, withstand): This word provides a direct contrast to the weakness implied by H7390. Rehoboam, being "young and tenderhearted," could not withstand his enemies 2 Chronicles 13:7.
The conceptual weight of H7390 is seen in its application to human character and divine action.
- Vulnerability and Weakness: The word often signifies a state of vulnerability due to youth or faintness of heart. This is evident when David feels weak despite being king 2 Samuel 3:39 and when Rehoboam's tenderhearted nature prevents him from withstanding his adversaries 2 Chronicles 13:7.
- The Power of Gentleness: In contrast to weakness, H7390 describes a form of strength. A "soft tongue" has the power to persuade a prince and break a bone, showing that gentleness can overcome formidable resistance Proverbs 25:15. A "soft answer" is potent enough to defuse wrath Proverbs 15:1.
- Physical and Spiritual Quality: The term applies to both the physical and spiritual. It can describe a choice "tender one" from a cedar tree that God will plant Ezekiel 17:22 or a "tender" child beloved by his parents Proverbs 4:3. It also describes the state of a "tender and delicate" woman who would not adventure to set her foot on the ground Deuteronomy 28:56.
In summary, H7390 is a multifaceted word that encompasses a spectrum from physical softness to emotional weakness and figurative gentleness. It describes the tenderness of a choice calf, the inexperience of a young king, the faintness of a soldier's heart, and the disarming power of a soft word. The use of rak illustrates that what might be considered a liability in one context, like battle, can be a source of immense strength in another, such as communication and persuasion.
TRV