The Hebrew word rikbâh, represented by H7396, is the feminine form for a chariot (collectively); chariots. It is a very rare term, appearing only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance places its meaning squarely within a specific commercial and prophetic context.
The sole use of H7396 is found in the prophecy against the city of Tyre in Ezekiel. The verse states, "Dedan was thy merchant in precious clothes for chariots" Ezekiel 27:20. In this passage, rikbâh refers not to the military use of chariots in battle, but to a specific luxury good associated with them. These "clothes for chariots" were likely ornate coverings or tapestries, part of the extensive and opulent trade that defined Tyre's wealth and pride.
The words used in the same verse as H7396 provide its immediate context, detailing a specific commercial transaction:
- H1719 Dᵉdân (Dedan, the name of two Cushites and of their territory): This identifies the people group who acted as the merchants supplying the goods related to the chariots Ezekiel 27:20.
- H7402 râkal ((spice) merchant): This term defines the role of Dedan, emphasizing that the context for H7396 is one of trade and commerce Ezekiel 27:20.
- H2667 Chôphesh (something spread loosely, i.e. a carpet; precious): This word describes the "clothes" for the chariots, indicating they were valuable, perhaps like saddle-cloths or decorative carpets Ezekiel 27:20.
- H899 beged (a covering, i.e. clothing; also treachery or pillage; apparel, cloth(-es, ing), garment): This is the object being traded for the chariots, highlighting that the focus is on a material good rather than the vehicle itself Ezekiel 27:20.
The theological significance of H7396 is derived entirely from its context within the judgment oracle against Tyre.
- Symbol of Material Pride: The reference to luxurious "clothes for chariots" serves as one detail in a long list of Tyre's immense wealth. This worldly opulence is presented as the source of the city's arrogance, which ultimately invites divine judgment.
- Item of Worldly Commerce: The word's appearance within a trade manifest underscores a key theme in Ezekiel's prophecy. The complex network of international commerce, which brought goods like these to Tyre, is shown to be fragile and subject to God's sovereign will. Dedan, the supplier, is also mentioned in other prophecies as facing calamity and judgment (Ezekiel 25:13, Jeremiah 49:8).
In summary, H7396 is a highly specific term whose meaning is straightforward but whose importance is tied to its unique context. It refers to "chariots" as the purpose for a luxury trade item—precious cloths. Its single mention in Scripture serves to illustrate the vastness of Tyre's commercial empire and, by extension, the prideful material wealth that led to its prophesied downfall.
TRV