from רָכַס; a mountain ridge (as of tied summits); rough place.
Transliteration:rekeç
Pronunciation:reh'-kes
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term רֶכֶס (rekeç - `{{H7406}}`) is derived from the root רָכַס (rakas - `{{H7405}}`), which carries the primary meaning "to bind, tie, or fasten." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding the semantic range of rekeç. It describes a "mountain ridge" or a "chain of mountains," conceptualized as a series of summits "tied" or "bound together." The imagery evokes a continuous, often rugged, elevation rather than an isolated peak. Consequently, it also denotes a "rough place," emphasizing the challenging and uneven nature of such terrain. The core meaning thus encompasses both the physical form of a connected elevated landmass and the inherent difficulty or ruggedness associated with it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is noteworthy that the word רֶכֶס (rekeç - `{{H7406}}`) does not appear in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible. While its Strong's number and definition are provided in lexicons, suggesting a recognized Hebrew term, its absence from the extant biblical corpus means there are no direct biblical occurrences to analyze contextually. This situation is rare but not unprecedented for Strong's numbers, which sometimes include words attested in other ancient Hebrew literature or reconstructed based on linguistic patterns and related roots. Therefore, any discussion of its "biblical context" must necessarily refer to the broader biblical understanding of mountainous or rough terrain, which is plentiful, rather than specific instances of this particular word. The concept of "rough places" or "mountain ridges" is integral to the geographical descriptions and metaphorical language of the Bible, often serving as natural boundaries, places of refuge, or challenging obstacles.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verbal root רָכַס (rakas - `{{H7405}}`), meaning "to bind, tie, fasten." This root underscores the understanding of a ridge as a series of peaks "bound" together. Other related Hebrew terms that describe aspects of elevated or rugged topography include:
* הַר (har - `{{H2022}}`): The most common word for "mountain" or "hill," often used in a general sense.
* צוּר (tsur - `{{H6697}}`): Denotes a "rock" or "cliff," often implying strength, refuge, or a formidable obstacle.
* סֶלַע (sela' - `{{H5553}}`): Similar to צוּר, referring to a "crag" or "rock," often used in contexts of shelter or strategic locations.
* בָּמָה (bamah - `{{H1116}}`): Refers to a "high place" or "ridge," frequently associated with cultic worship, both legitimate and illicit.
These terms collectively paint a picture of the diverse and significant role of elevated and rough terrain in the biblical landscape, whether as geographical markers, places of divine encounter, or symbols of challenge and security.
### Theological Significance
Despite its non-occurrence in the biblical text, the concept embodied by רֶכֶס (rekeç - `{{H7406}}`)—that of a mountain ridge or a rough, bound series of elevations—holds implicit theological significance within the broader biblical narrative. Mountains and rugged landscapes in the Bible are often imbued with spiritual meaning:
* **Divine Presence and Revelation:** Mountains frequently serve as sites where God reveals Himself (e.g., Mount Sinai for the giving of the Law, Mount Carmel for Elijah's confrontation). The "rough places" can thus be seen as hallowed ground.
* **Boundaries and Order:** Ridges naturally form boundaries, reflecting God's established order in creation, separating lands and peoples. This speaks to divine sovereignty over the physical world.
* **Challenges and Refuge:** Rough terrain represents life's difficulties and obstacles, yet it also provides places of refuge and safety (e.g., David hiding in caves). This duality highlights God's provision and guidance through trials.
* **God's Creative Power:** The very existence of such majestic and rugged formations testifies to the immense power and artistry of the Creator, who "set the mountains in their place" (cf. [[Psalm 65:6]]). The "binding" aspect from the root `{{H7405}}` could subtly suggest God's intricate design and the interconnectedness of His creation, even in its most formidable elements.
### Summary
The Hebrew word רֶכֶס (rekeç - `{{H7406}}`) denotes a "mountain ridge" or "rough place," deriving its meaning from the root רָכַס (rakas - `{{H7405}}`), "to bind or tie." This etymology paints a picture of connected, rugged elevations. While rekeç itself does not appear in the Masoretic Text of the Hebrew Bible, the concept it represents is deeply embedded within biblical geography and theology. Mountains and rough terrain are consistently portrayed as significant elements of God's creation, serving as sites of divine encounter, natural boundaries, and metaphors for life's challenges and the security found in God. The implicit theological significance of rekeç thus lies in its contribution to understanding the divine ordering of creation and God's sovereignty over all landscapes, both smooth and rugged.
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