### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Ritspâh**, represented by `{{H7532}}`, refers to a specific Israelitess named Rizpah. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. Her story is one of political consequence and profound maternal devotion in the aftermath of King Saul's reign.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Rizpah is identified as the **daughter** `{{H1323}}` of **Aiah** `{{H345}}` and a **concubine** `{{H6370}}` of **Saul** `{{H7586}}` [[2 Samuel 3:7]]. Her position in the royal household becomes a point of conflict when Abner is accused of going in to her, an act with significant political implications [[2 Samuel 3:7]]. Later, her two **sons** `{{H1121}}` by Saul, **Armoni** `{{H764}}` and **Mephibosheth** `{{H4648}}`, are taken by the king [[2 Samuel 21:8]]. In an unforgettable act of grief, Rizpah **took** `{{H3947}}` **sackcloth** `{{H8242}}` and watched over the bodies of her sons from the **beginning** `{{H8462}}` of the **harvest** `{{H7105}}` until rain **dropped** `{{H5413}}` from **heaven** `{{H8064}}`, protecting them from **birds** `{{H5775}}` and **beasts** `{{H2416}}` day and night [[2 Samuel 21:10]]. Her vigil was so impactful that it was **told** `{{H5046}}` to King **David** `{{H1732}}` [[2 Samuel 21:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding Rizpah's story:
* `{{H6370}}` **pîylegesh** (concubine): This word defines her status within Saul's household. Her role as a royal concubine placed her at the center of political turmoil and obligation [[2 Samuel 3:7]].
* `{{H7586}}` **Shâʼûwl** (Saul): As the king to whom she was a concubine, Saul is central to her identity and the lineage of her sons. The consequences of his reign directly lead to the tragic events she endures [[2 Samuel 21:8]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is at the heart of Rizpah's narrative. Her story is defined by the bearing of her **two** `{{H8147}}` sons to Saul and her unwavering devotion to them after their deaths [[2 Samuel 21:8]].
* `{{H345}}` **ʼAyâh** (Aiah): Mentioned in every verse where Rizpah appears, he is her father, establishing her lineage ([[2 Samuel 3:7]], [[2 Samuel 21:8]], [[2 Samuel 21:10]], [[2 Samuel 21:11]]).
### Theological Significance
The narrative of `{{H7532}}` carries significant thematic weight, focusing on loyalty and the human cost of political events.
* **Maternal Loyalty:** Rizpah’s vigil is a powerful symbol of a mother's devotion. She endured the elements from the **beginning** `{{H8462}}` of the **harvest** `{{H7105}}` to protect the bodies of her sons, not allowing the **birds** `{{H5775}}` or **beasts** `{{H2416}}` to **rest** `{{H5117}}` on them [[2 Samuel 21:10]].
* **A Righteous Act:** Her use of **sackcloth** `{{H8242}}` on the **rock** `{{H6697}}` was a public display of mourning so profound that it captured the attention of King **David** `{{H1732}}`, suggesting an act of righteousness that could not be ignored [[2 Samuel 21:11]].
* **Consequences of Power:** Rizpah's life illustrates the precarious position of women in royal courts. First, she is the subject of a political power play [[2 Samuel 3:7]], and later, she suffers the loss of her children due to a royal decree [[2 Samuel 21:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7532}}` represents Rizpah, a figure whose brief appearances in scripture leave a lasting legacy. Though her story is born from the politics of a kingdom in transition, she is remembered not as a political pawn but as a powerful example of maternal love and faithfulness. Her silent, steadfast vigil over her executed sons speaks more profoundly than words, demonstrating a devotion that ultimately influenced a king.
TRV