### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rats**, represented by `{{H7518}}`, is defined as a **fragment** or **piece**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 verse** throughout the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from its singular, highly specific context within a psalm of judgment against aggressive powers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7518}}` is in [[Psalms 68:30]]. In this passage, the psalmist calls on God to intervene against violent nations, described metaphorically as "the company of spearmen" and "the multitude of the bulls." The verse asks God to rebuke them until they "submit himself with **pieces** of silver." Here, the word signifies a tribute offered in defeat, where wealth is presented not as a whole offering but as broken fragments, symbolizing the subjugation and shattering of the enemy's power.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context illuminate the meaning of `{{H7518}}`:
* `{{H7511}}` **râphaç** (humble self, submit self): This verb describes the action demanded of the enemy. The offering of "pieces" is a direct result of this forced submission, which involves being trampled or prostrated [[Proverbs 6:3]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver): This specifies the material of the tribute. Silver often represents wealth and value, and in this context, its presentation in "pieces" signifies a broken treasury offered in surrender. It is the same material God refines His people with [[Zechariah 13:9]].
* `{{H1605}}` **gâʻar** (rebuke): This is the divine action that compels the submission. God's rebuke is a powerful act of judgment that breaks the strength of nations and forces them into submission [[Isaiah 17:13]].
* `{{H967}}` **bâzar** (scatter): This is the ultimate fate sought for those who "delight in war" [[Psalms 68:30]]. The submission with fragments of silver is a precursor to their complete dispersal by God's power.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7518}}` is tied entirely to its singular use in a prayer for divine justice.
* **Divine Judgment on Aggression:** The context is a plea for God to act against those who **delight** `{{H2654}}` in **war** `{{H7128}}`. The call for them to submit with **pieces** `{{H7518}}` of silver is a call for their humbling and defeat.
* **Symbol of Subjugation:** A "fragment" is not a willing gift but a sign of being broken. The offering of **pieces** of **silver** `{{H3701}}` represents the tribute paid by a conquered people whose pride and power have been shattered by a superior force.
* **The Futility of Worldly Power:** The imagery of powerful "bulls" `{{H47}}` and "calves" `{{H5695}}` being brought so low that they offer fragmented wealth demonstrates that earthly might and riches are ultimately meaningless when set against the authority of God.
### Summary
In summary, though used only once, `{{H7518}}` offers a potent and vivid image. It is more than a literal **piece**; it symbolizes a state of being broken, humbled, and defeated. Its use in [[Psalms 68:30]] paints a clear picture of divine sovereignty, where God rebukes the proud and warlike, shattering their strength until their submission is demonstrated through the tribute of fragmented wealth.
TRV