### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rᵉkullâh**, represented by `{{H7404}}`, refers to **trade**, **merchandise**, or **traffic**, as in peddled goods. It is a specific term, appearing only **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Its occurrences exclusively within the book of Ezekiel frame it as a concept tied to commercial activity and its potential for moral and spiritual consequence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7404}}` is used solely in the context of God's judgment against the wealthy city of Tyre. It is presented not as a neutral activity, but as a source of pride and corruption. Through great wisdom and **traffick**, the king of Tyre increased his riches, which led to his heart being "lifted up" [[Ezekiel 28:5]]. This connection between commerce and sin is intensified when the "multitude of thy **merchandise**" is shown to have filled the city with violence [[Ezekiel 28:16]]. The prophecy declares that this ill-gotten gain is fleeting, as enemies will "make a prey of thy **merchandise**" [[Ezekiel 26:12]]. Ultimately, the city's ruin is attributed to the "iniquity of thy **traffick**" [[Ezekiel 28:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words illuminate the context surrounding `{{H7404}}`:
* `{{H7230}}` **rôb** (abundance, multitude): This word quantifies the immense scale of the commerce. It is the "multitude of thy **merchandise**" that leads to violence and sin [[Ezekiel 28:16]] and the "multitude of thine iniquities" that defiles the sanctuaries [[Ezekiel 28:18]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (wealth, riches, substance): This represents the direct result of the traffick. Trade is the means by which "riches" are increased, fostering the pride that invites judgment [[Ezekiel 28:5]]. The prophecy foretells that these very riches will be plundered along with the merchandise [[Ezekiel 26:12]].
* `{{H5766}}` **ʻevel** (iniquity, unrighteousness): This term defines the moral character of the trade. The downfall of Tyre is explicitly linked to the "iniquity of thy **traffick**," demonstrating that the commercial activity itself had become corrupt [[Ezekiel 28:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7404}}` is significant, serving as a focused warning against the dangers of wealth and trade when divorced from godliness.
* **Commerce and Corruption:** The use of the word illustrates a direct causal link between extensive **merchandise** and the rise of violence and sin, showing how commercial pursuits can corrupt a society [[Ezekiel 28:16]].
* **Prosperity and Pride:** The acquisition of **riches** through **traffick** is shown to be a source of dangerous pride, where the heart becomes "lifted up" in self-sufficiency, forgetting its dependence on God [[Ezekiel 28:5]].
* **Iniquity and Judgment:** The term is inseparable from divine judgment. The "iniquity of thy **traffick**" is a primary charge that leads to the defilement of sanctuaries and the complete destruction of the proud city [[Ezekiel 28:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7404}}` is more than a simple term for trade. Its exclusive use in Ezekiel's prophecies against Tyre transforms it into a powerful symbol of unrighteous commerce. It marks a clear progression from abundant **merchandise** to sinful wealth, from prideful hearts to divine judgment. This word demonstrates how a pursuit like trade, when driven by iniquity, becomes a direct cause for spiritual ruin.
TRV