### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H7510}}` (רִפְיוֹן, *riphyôwn*) denotes a state of "slackness" or "feebleness." It is directly derived from the verbal root `{{H7503}}` (רָפָה, *raphah*), which carries a broad semantic range including "to sink," "to relax," "to let go," "to grow weak," "to be faint," or "to be idle." Thus, riphyôwn describes the condition or outcome of this verb: a profound lack of strength, vigor, firmness, or resolve. It implies a state of being "let go" or "loosened," whether physically, emotionally, or morally. This can manifest as physical exhaustion, a loss of courage, or an inability to act effectively.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H7510}}` (רִפְיוֹן, *riphyôwn*) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, making its single context particularly significant for understanding its full import.
* **[[Jeremiah 47:3]]**: "At the sound of the stamping of the hooves of his stallions, at the rushing of his chariots, at the rumbling of his wheels, the fathers will not look back for their children, because of the *feebleness* of their hands."
This verse is part of a prophetic oracle concerning the destruction of Philistia by an invading force, likely the Babylonians under Nebuchadnezzar. The imagery depicts an overwhelming and terrifying advance, so intense that it paralyzes even the most fundamental human instinct: a father's protective love for his children. The "feebleness of their hands" (רִפְיוֹן יָדָיִם) is not merely physical weakness from battle, but a deep-seated, paralyzing terror that strips away all capacity for action, resistance, or even care. It signifies a complete collapse of morale, courage, and the will to defend, leading to utter impotence in the face of an unstoppable force. It is a state of profound demoralization and helplessness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and foundational related word is the verbal root `{{H7503}}` (רָפָה, *raphah*), from which riphyôwn is derived. This root frequently describes:
* **Letting go or leaving alone**: As in [[Deuteronomy 4:31]] where God will not "let go" (forsake) Israel.
* **Growing weak or faint**: Often referring to hands or knees, symbolizing a loss of strength or courage, e.g., [[2 Samuel 17:2]] (hands "grow weak"), [[Isaiah 13:7]] (hands "go limp").
* **Being idle or negligent**: As in [[Exodus 5:8]] where the Israelites are accused of being "idle."
Other related concepts that express various forms of weakness, discouragement, or inability include:
* `{{H2479}}` (חָלַשׁ, *chalash*): to be weak, prostrate.
* `{{H2481}}` (חֳלִי, *choliy*): sickness, disease, often implying physical debility.
* `{{H3587}}` (כָּהָה, *kahah*): to grow dim, faint, lose strength.
* `{{H3511}}` (כָּשַׁל, *kashal*): to stumble, totter, fail.
In contrast, riphyôwn stands in opposition to concepts of strength (`{{H2389}}` - חֹזֶק, *chozeq*), courage (`{{H5324}}` - נֶצַח, *netsach* in some contexts, or generally a strong heart), and steadfastness.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of `{{H7510}}` in [[Jeremiah 47:3]] carries significant theological weight. It serves as a stark illustration of the devastating effects of divine judgment, or events permitted by divine sovereignty, upon human capacity. The "feebleness" described is not merely a physical state but a profound spiritual and psychological collapse that renders individuals utterly impotent.
This passage highlights several theological truths:
1. **The Fragility of Human Strength**: Even the most fundamental human bonds and instincts (parental protection) can be utterly dissolved in the face of overwhelming terror. This underscores the transient and limited nature of human power and resolve when confronted with forces beyond human control, particularly those orchestrated by God.
2. **The Sovereignty of God in Judgment**: The "feebleness" is a consequence of an invading force, which in prophetic literature is often an instrument of God's judgment against nations. It demonstrates that God can bring about circumstances so dire that human strength, courage, and even love fail completely, enforcing His ultimate authority.
3. **The Depth of Despair**: Riphyôwn vividly portrays a state of utter despair and helplessness, where all hope and ability to act are extinguished. It paints a picture of what it means for a people to be completely broken and without recourse.
Thus, riphyôwn in its biblical context speaks to the profound incapacitation that can befall individuals and nations when they face the consequences of their actions or the overwhelming might of God's providential plan.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H7510}}` (רִפְיוֹן, *riphyôwn*) denotes "slackness" or "feebleness," deriving from the root `{{H7503}}` (רָפָה, *raphah*), meaning "to let go" or "to grow weak." Its sole biblical appearance in [[Jeremiah 47:3]] powerfully illustrates a state of profound physical and emotional collapse, where overwhelming terror induces such "feebleness of hands" that even natural parental instincts are overridden. This singular usage underscores the fragility of human strength and resolve in the face of overwhelming circumstances, often orchestrated by divine judgment, and serves as a vivid depiction of utter despair and helplessness.
TRV