### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râʻad**, represented by `{{H7460}}`, is a primitive root defined as to **shudder** (more or less violently); **tremble**. It is a specific term that appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, each time illustrating a profound reaction to a powerful force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H7460}}` is used to describe a response to divine power or a moment of great significance. This is seen on a cosmic scale when God's power over creation is described; He looks at the **earth** and it **trembles** [[Psalms 104:32]]. It also portrays a deeply personal human reaction to the supernatural, as when the prophet Daniel **stood trembling** while being addressed by a heavenly messenger [[Daniel 10:11]]. In a communal context, the men of Judah and Benjamin sat **trembling** in Jerusalem, reacting to both the gravity of a religious matter and a great rain [[Ezra 10:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the act of trembling:
* `{{H5027}}` **nâbaṭ** (to scan, i.e. look intently at): This action is shown to be the direct cause of the earth's reaction, as God's **look** is what makes it tremble [[Psalms 104:32]].
* `{{H5060}}` **nâgaʻ** (to touch... strike): This term is used in parallel with God's look, where his **touch** on the hills causes them to smoke, another physical response to divine power [[Psalms 104:32]].
* `{{H5975}}` **ʻâmad** (to stand): This word describes the physical posture accompanying the experience of trembling, as Daniel **stood** trembling before the angel [[Daniel 10:11]].
* `{{H6225}}` **ʻâshan** (to smoke, whether literal or figurative; be angry): This appears alongside trembling as a reaction of nature to God's presence, as the hills **smoke** at his touch [[Psalms 104:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7460}}` is demonstrated in its various applications:
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The trembling of the **earth** at God's gaze is a powerful statement of His absolute authority and might over all creation [[Psalms 104:32]].
* **Human Reverence:** Trembling is a natural human response when confronted with the divine. Daniel's experience illustrates that this is an act of profound awe and reverence in the presence of holiness [[Daniel 10:11]].
* **Communal Conviction:** The people **trembling** in Ezra's time shows the term can also signify a deep sense of conviction and fear of God in response to a serious covenant matter [[Ezra 10:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7460}}` **râʻad** is far more than a word for physical shaking. It captures a deep and visceral response to an overwhelming power or presence. Whether it is the earth shuddering before its Creator, a prophet in awe of a divine messenger, or a community reacting to a solemn affair, the word signifies a state of profound reverence and fear.
TRV