### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rᵉphîydâh**, represented by `{{H7507}}`, refers to a **bottom** or a railing. Derived from a root meaning to spread along, this term appears only **1 time** in a single verse in the entire Bible, making its context highly specific and significant. It describes a foundational or supporting part of a constructed object.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7507}}` is in the Song of Solomon, where it describes a part of a magnificent palanquin or chariot. The verse details its luxurious construction: "He made the pillars thereof of silver, the **bottom** thereof of gold, the covering of it of purple, the midst thereof being paved with love, for the daughters of Jerusalem" [[Song of Solomon 3:10]]. In this rich descriptive passage, `rᵉphîydâh` serves as the base of the structure, crafted from the most precious of metals.
### Related Words & Concepts
The singular context of `{{H7507}}` is enriched by the words surrounding it, which together paint a picture of royal splendor and deep affection:
* `{{H4817}}` **merkâb** (chariot, covering, saddle): This is the object being described. The term refers to a **chariot** or a **seat (in a vehicle)**. Its presence in [[Song of Solomon 3:10]] as the "covering" further specifies the palanquin's opulent design.
* `{{H5982}}` **ʻammûwd** (pillar): These are the supports of the structure, made of silver. The word means a **column (as standing)** or a platform, giving the chariot its vertical form [[Song of Solomon 3:10]].
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold): This precious metal, used for the "bottom," comes from a root meaning to shimmer. It signifies immense value and is used figuratively for things that are gold-colored or clear [[Song of Solomon 3:10]].
* `{{H160}}` **ʼahăbâh** (love): This is the central, internal quality of the chariot. The word means **affection** and describes the very material with which the chariot's midst is "paved" [[Song of Solomon 3:10]].
### Theological Significance
Though rare, the theological weight of `{{H7507}}` is derived from its unique and powerful context in Song of Solomon.
* **A Foundation of Value:** The `bottom` of this chariot is made of `gold` `{{H2091}}`, establishing that the foundation of this divinely referenced love is of the highest possible worth, purity, and endurance.
* **Supporting Structure for Love:** The entire vehicle, from its silver `pillars` `{{H5982}}` to its golden `bottom` `{{H7507}}`, is created to be a vessel. Its interior is "paved with `love`" `{{H160}}`, indicating that the physical structure exists to support and display this central theme of affection for the "daughters of Jerusalem" `{{H1323}}`.
* **Symbol of Royal Splendor:** The materials used—`silver` `{{H3701}}`, `gold` `{{H2091}}`, and `purple` `{{H713}}`—are consistently associated with royalty and worship throughout scripture. The `bottom` contributes to an image of a love that is majestic and set apart.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7507}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely contained within a single, poetic verse. While it literally denotes the **bottom** of a chariot, its context elevates it to a symbol of a precious and solid foundation. As part of a structure built with silver, gold, and purple, and paved with love, `rᵉphîydâh` illustrates how even the most functional components can contribute to a profound theological picture of affection that is valuable, royal, and foundational.
TRV