### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râtsad**, represented by `{{H7520}}`, is a primitive root whose meaning is debated but is understood as to **leap** or, figuratively, to look askant or be jealous. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. This single usage powerfully personifies the landscape to convey a message about envy and divine choice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7520}}` is in [[Psalms 68:16]], where the psalmist poses a rhetorical question to the mountains: "Why **leap** ye, ye high hills?". This act of "leaping" is not a literal jump but a figurative expression of watching with jealousy or rivalry. The verse contrasts the agitation of these other prominent hills with the specific hill that God desires for His dwelling place. The context suggests that these "high hills" are jealously observing God's selection of a different mountain, making their "leaping" an expression of envious discontent.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text illuminate the meaning of this scene:
* `{{H2022}}` **har** (a mountain or range of hills): This word identifies the subjects of the action. The question is directed at the "high **hills**" [[Psalms 68:16]], establishing the setting of a divine choice among prominent geographical features, which often symbolize kingdoms or powers.
* `{{H1386}}` **gabnôn** (high): This qualifier describes the leaping hills as **high**, or having many peaks. Their elevated status is linked to their prideful, jealous reaction to God choosing another hill for His dwelling [[Psalms 68:16]].
* `{{H2530}}` **châmad** (to delight in; covet, desire): This word reveals the motive for the hills' envy. Their agitation is a direct response to the fact that God **desireth** to dwell in a different, specific hill [[Psalms 68:16]].
* `{{H7931}}` **shâkan** (to reside or permanently stay): This term emphasizes the finality of God's choice. The LORD will **dwell** in His chosen hill forever [[Psalms 68:16]], rendering the jealousy of the other hills futile.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7520}}` is centered on the contrast between worldly envy and God's sovereign will.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The "leaping" of the high hills symbolizes the restless ambition and jealousy of earthly powers that vie for prominence. This stands in stark opposition to the quiet authority of God, who chooses His dwelling place not based on height or might, but according to His own desire [[Psalms 68:16]].
* **The Chosen Place:** The passage highlights the stability of God's chosen mountain. While other hills "leap" with envy, the one God chooses is characterized by His permanent presence. This concept finds parallels in the description of Mount Zion, which "cannot be removed, but abideth for ever" [[Psalms 125:1]].
* **Rebuke of Pride:** The question "Why leap ye...?" serves as a rebuke against pride. The "high hills" `{{H1386}}`, confident in their own stature, are shown to be unsettled and envious, demonstrating the futility of challenging God's selection.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7520}}` provides a potent and concise metaphor within its single biblical appearance. The word **râtsad** transforms a physical landscape into a drama of divine election versus worldly envy. It illustrates how the prideful "leap" in protest, while the place chosen by God is established in permanence, secure not in its own height but in the fact that He desires to dwell there.
TRV