### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râkak** `{{H7401}}` is a primitive root that means **to soften**. Appearing **8 times** in **8 unique verses**, this word is used figuratively to describe states of being **faint(-hearted)**, to **mollify**, or to be or make **soft(-er)** or **tender**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7401}}` is used to describe the state of the human heart in various circumstances. In a positive sense, it depicts a heart that is receptive and repentant before God, as seen in the case of King Josiah, whose heart was **tender** upon hearing God's words ([[2 Kings 22:19]]; [[2 Chronicles 34:27]]). Conversely, it often appears in warnings against fear and cowardice, urging the Israelites not to let their hearts **faint** in the face of enemies or troubling rumors ([[Deuteronomy 20:3]]; [[Isaiah 7:4]]; [[Jeremiah 51:46]]). The term is also used in a physical sense, describing how wounds are **mollified** with ointment [[Isaiah 1:6]], and metaphorically to characterize deceptive words that are **softer** than oil [[Psalms 55:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which **râkak** is used:
* `{{H3824}}` **lêbâb** (heart): The state described by `{{H7401}}` is almost always connected to the **heart**. Whether it is a **tender** heart [[2 Kings 22:19]] or a **faint** heart [[Deuteronomy 20:3]], this word identifies the center of human emotion and will as the subject of softening or fear.
* `{{H3665}}` **kânaʻ** (to humble): This action is directly linked to having a **tender** heart. In response to God's word, one with a tender heart will **humble** oneself, as King Josiah did [[2 Chronicles 34:27]].
* `{{H3372}}` **yârêʼ** (to fear): This term is often used in contrast or conjunction with a faint heart. Commands are given to not **fear** or let the heart **faint**, linking the state of fear with faintheartedness ([[Deuteronomy 20:3]]; [[Jeremiah 51:46]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological implications of `{{H7401}}` center on the condition of the human heart and its response to God and to worldly circumstances.
* **A Receptive Heart:** A **tender** `{{H7401}}` heart is presented as a spiritually desirable state. It is a heart that is sensitive to God's word, leading to repentance, humility `{{H3665}}`, and weeping `{{H1058}}`, as demonstrated by King Josiah ([[2 Kings 22:19]]; [[2 Chronicles 34:27]]).
* **A Fearful Heart:** In contrast, a **faint** `{{H7401}}` heart is a sign of spiritual weakness and lack of faith. It is a state to be overcome, as God commands His people not to be fainthearted when facing trials or enemies, but to trust in Him ([[Deuteronomy 20:3]]; [[Isaiah 7:4]]).
* **God's Sovereignty over the Heart:** The word is also used to show God's power to affect the inner state of a person. God can make the heart **soft** `{{H7401}}`, which in Job's case is a source of trouble and distress [[Job 23:16]], highlighting that the condition of one's heart is ultimately subject to divine action.
### Summary
In summary, **râkak** `{{H7401}}` provides a nuanced picture of the inner human condition. It is not merely about being soft, but about what causes that state and what it produces. A heart made **tender** by God's word leads to humility and a right relationship with Him, while a heart that becomes **faint** from fear demonstrates a lack of trust. From the physical act of **mollifying** a wound [[Isaiah 1:6]] to the spiritual state of a king's heart [[2 Chronicles 34:27]], `{{H7401}}` illustrates the critical importance of a heart's disposition before God and in the face of life's challenges.
TRV