### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **repheth**, represented by `{{H7517}}`, refers to a **stall** for cattle. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single usage highly specific. The definition suggests it is a place where cattle rest, highlighting its function as a shelter for valuable livestock.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{H7517}}` occurs in [[Habakkuk 3:17]], within a powerful description of complete agricultural collapse. The prophet catalogues a series of devastating losses affecting every cornerstone of the agrarian economy, from failed crops to absent livestock. The verse states that even if the fig tree `{{H8384}}` does not blossom `{{H6524}}`, the olive `{{H2132}}` provides no labor `{{H4639}}`, and the fields `{{H7709}}` yield `{{H6213}}` no food `{{H400}}`, the situation is further compounded by the loss of animals. The flock `{{H6629}}` is cut off `{{H1504}}` from the fold `{{H4356}}`, and most pointedly, "there shall be no herd `{{H1241}}` in the **stalls** `{{H7517}}`."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context in [[Habakkuk 3:17]] illuminate the scope of this agricultural failure:
* `{{H1241}}` **bâqâr** (herd): This refers to the cattle or oxen that would occupy the stalls. The absence of a herd, which represented wealth, power for plowing, and a source for offerings, signifies a profound economic and spiritual crisis ([[Genesis 24:35]], [[Job 1:3]]).
* `{{H4356}}` **miklâʼâh** (fold): Used in parallel with **repheth**, this term denotes a pen for flocks. The verse creates a comprehensive picture of loss by noting the emptiness of both the fold for sheep and the stalls for cattle [[Habakkuk 3:17]].
* `{{H6629}}` **tsôʼn** (flock): This collective name for sheep or goats is paired with the herd `{{H1241}}`. In scripture, flocks are a primary indicator of blessing and are often used figuratively for God's people [[Psalms 100:3]].
* `{{H1504}}` **gâzar** (to cut down or off): This verb describes the fate of the flock, which is "cut off" from the fold. It implies a violent and final separation, mirroring the utter emptiness of the stalls.
### Theological Significance
The thematic weight of `{{H7517}}` is derived entirely from its singular, dramatic context in Habakkuk.
* **Symbol of Provision and Stability:** A stall filled with a herd represents security, sustenance, and divine blessing in an agricultural society. Its emptiness is therefore a stark symbol of judgment and the removal of that provision.
* **A Picture of Total Desolation:** The mention of empty stalls is the final element in a list of catastrophic failures. It serves as the capstone of national disaster, where every source of food, wealth, and livelihood—from the vine `{{H1612}}` and olive `{{H2132}}` to the flock `{{H6629}}` and herd `{{H1241}}`—has disappeared.
* **Foundation for Faith Amidst Loss:** The verse describes a situation of absolute material loss. The empty stalls contribute to a scene of utter hopelessness, which sets the stage for a profound declaration of trust in God when all earthly securities have been stripped away [[Habakkuk 3:17]].
### Summary
In summary, while **repheth** `{{H7517}}` is one of the rarest words in the biblical text, its single use is exceptionally powerful. It functions as more than a mere architectural term for a **stall**; it is a potent symbol of agricultural security and wealth. Its appearance in [[Habakkuk 3:17]] captures a moment of complete desolation, illustrating the fragility of human prosperity and framing a pivotal test of faith in the face of total loss.
TRV