### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **retseph**, represented by `{{H7529}}`, means a **red-hot stone (for baking)** or **coal**. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a specific and vivid image of sustenance prepared by simple means.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7529}}` is found in [[1 Kings 19:6]]. In this passage, the prophet Elijah looks and discovers "a cake baken on the **coals**" and a cruse of water at his head. This provision appears at a critical moment, and upon finding it, "he did eat and drink, and laid him down again" [[1 Kings 19:6]]. The word describes the source of heat used to prepare this essential meal.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H7529}}` connects it to several key actions related to sustenance and renewal:
* `{{H5692}}` **ʻuggâh** (an ash-cake): This is the food item baked on the coals. It often refers to a simple, quickly made cake, such as those Abraham instructed Sarah to make on the hearth [[Genesis 18:6]]. The term is also used metaphorically to describe Ephraim as "a **cake** not turned" [[Hosea 7:8]].
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): This is the action of consuming the food provided. The word is used for physical nourishment [[Genesis 2:17]] and figuratively for receiving spiritual sustenance, such as when Jeremiah did **eat** God's words [[Jeremiah 15:16]].
* `{{H8354}}` **shâthâh** (to drink): Paired with eating, this word completes the act of being sustained. It appears in contexts of physical refreshment from a rock [[Exodus 17:6]] and celebratory feasting as an act of worship [[Nehemiah 8:10]].
* `{{H7725}}` **shûwb** (to turn back, again): This word describes Elijah's action after eating and drinking. It signifies a return, whether physically laying down **again** [[1 Kings 19:6]] or spiritually when one is called to **return** unto the LORD [[Isaiah 55:7]].
### Theological Significance
Though appearing only once, the theological weight of `{{H7529}}` is tied directly to its context of divine intervention.
* **Divine Provision:** The **coals** are the instrument for a divinely prepared meal. The cake baked on them [[1 Kings 19:6]] serves as a direct sign of God's care and provision for His servant.
* **Simple Means for a Sacred Purpose:** A **red-hot stone** is a common object. Its use in this context demonstrates how God can employ simple and ordinary elements to provide for His people and accomplish His will.
* **Foundation for Sustenance:** The **coals** are the foundation for the meal that allows Elijah to be refreshed. The act of eating `{{H398}}` and drinking `{{H8354}}` that follows points to the life-giving nature of God's provision, a theme echoed in passages where eating and drinking are tied to joy and strength [[Nehemiah 8:10]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7529}}` **retseph** is a precise term whose importance is far greater than its frequency suggests. As a **red-hot stone** or **coal**, its single use in scripture [[1 Kings 19:6]] becomes a powerful symbol of God's timely and practical provision. It forms the basis for a meal of sustenance, illustrating how God uses humble, everyday means to care for and renew his people in their moment of need.
TRV