### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rôkeç**, represented by `{{H7407}}`, is defined as **pride** or a snare, as of tied meshes. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in the entire Bible, which underscores the specific context in which it is used.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single instance of `{{H7407}}` is found in [[Psalms 31:20]], where it describes a destructive human quality from which God provides refuge. The verse reads, "Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the **pride** of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues." Here, **rôkeç** is presented as the "pride of man," a threat significant enough to require divine protection. It is placed in parallel with the "strife of tongues," linking this pride to contentious and harmful speech.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context help clarify the meaning of `{{H7407}}`:
* `{{H5643}}` **çêther** (a cover, hiding place, protection, secret): This is the place of safety God provides from the "pride" of man. It represents a divine refuge that stands in direct opposition to the threat of human pride [[Psalms 31:20]].
* `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** (a man as an individual or a male person): This word specifies the source of the pride. The danger is not an abstract concept but the specific "pride of **man**," highlighting a characteristic flaw of humanity [[Psalms 31:20]].
* `{{H7379}}` **rîyb** (a contest, contention, strife): The concept of "pride" is set in parallel with **strife**. This connection suggests that pride is a source of conflict and verbal attacks [[Psalms 31:20]].
* `{{H3956}}` **lâshôwn** (the tongue, speech, language): This specifies that the strife born from pride manifests through the **tongue**, or destructive speech. God's protection in a pavilion offers shelter from these verbal assaults [[Psalms 31:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7407}}` is concentrated in its single appearance, offering a concise but powerful lesson.
* **Pride as a Snare:** The definition of **rôkeç** as both "pride" and "a snare" suggests that human pride acts as a trap, creating danger and conflict for others.
* **God as a Hiding Place:** The primary theological point of the verse is God's role as a protector. He hides the faithful in the "secret of thy presence" `{{H5643}}` and keeps them in a "pavilion" `{{H5521}}` away from the dangers of human pride [[Psalms 31:20]].
* **The Link Between Pride and Strife:** By paralleling the "pride of man" with the "strife of tongues," the scripture establishes a direct link between the internal attitude of pride and the external action of verbal conflict [[Psalms 31:20]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{H7407}}` is used only once, its meaning is clear and significant. It portrays **pride** not merely as an internal feeling but as a destructive, snare-like force originating from humanity. Its sole context in [[Psalms 31:20]] uses it to sharply contrast human antagonism with the safety and secret protection found exclusively in the presence of God.
TRV