### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **riphyôwn**, represented by `{{H7510}}`, denotes **slackness** or **feebleness**. It appears only **1 time** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific. The term, derived from רָפָה, describes a state of debilitating weakness and paralysis that renders one incapable of action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H7510}}` is used to paint a vivid picture of overwhelming terror. In the face of an invading army, the sound is so immense—the **noise** `{{H6963}}` of stamping `{{H8161}}` hoofs `{{H6541}}`, the **rushing** `{{H7494}}` of chariots `{{H7393}}`, and the **rumbling** `{{H1995}}` of wheels `{{H1534}}`—that it causes a complete breakdown of parental instinct. Fathers `{{H1}}` are rendered so helpless by **feebleness** of hands that they cannot even look back for their own children `{{H1121}}` [[Jeremiah 47:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text clarify the meaning of `{{H7510}}`:
* `{{H3027}}` **yâd** (a hand): This word, representing power and action, is directly linked to the feebleness. The "feebleness of **hands**" [[Jeremiah 47:3]] signifies a complete inability to act or save.
* `{{H7494}}` **raʻash** (commotion, confused noise, earthquake, fierceness, quaking, rattling, rushing, shaking): This term describes the source of the terror. The overwhelming **rushing** of the chariots creates a state of paralysis captured by `{{H7510}}`.
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): The fact that **fathers** are the ones who experience this feebleness underscores its profound nature, as it negates the fundamental role of a protector and chief of a family.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7510}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage:
* **The Paralysis of Terror:** The term illustrates how overwhelming fear can induce a state of utter helplessness, rendering people physically and emotionally powerless. The **feebleness** of hands in [[Jeremiah 47:3]] is a physical manifestation of a spirit crushed by terror.
* **Breakdown of Natural Order:** The image of fathers abandoning their children highlights a complete collapse of societal and familial roles. This level of **feebleness** shows that in moments of extreme crisis, even the most foundational human bonds can be severed by sheer incapacitation.
* **Human Frailty vs. Overwhelming Power:** The context pits human ability against the unstoppable force of the invading army. The result, **feebleness**, serves as a stark reminder of human frailty and the inability of natural strength to endure in the face of such calamitous events.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7510}}` is a highly specific term whose single occurrence delivers a potent message. **Riphyôwn** encapsulates more than just physical weakness; it is the utter **feebleness** and slackness of hand and spirit that arises in the face of overwhelming, terrifying force. Its use in [[Jeremiah 47:3]] provides a lasting image of human helplessness where even the instinct to protect one's own children is nullified by paralyzing fear.
TRV