### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **raq**, represented by `{{H7534}}`, is a descriptive term for **emaciated** or **thin**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The word's definition, meaning emaciated as if flattened out, conveys a strong sense of being lean or thin, typically in a context of poor condition or scarcity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7534}}` is used exclusively within the account of Pharaoh's dream in the book of Genesis. It gives form to the seven sickly **kine** `{{H6510}}` that symbolize a coming famine. These cows are described as **"leanfleshed"** [[Genesis 41:19]], **"lean"** [[Genesis 41:20]], and **"thin"** [[Genesis 41:27]]. In each instance, the word is paired with the term for "ill favoured" `{{H7451}}`, cementing its association with the badness and distress of the seven years of famine prophesied by Joseph.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{H7534}}`:
* `{{H1277}}` **bârîyʼ** (fatted or plump): This word provides a direct contrast to `{{H7534}}`. In the dream narrative, the **lean** kine consume the **fat** kine, starkly illustrating the coming famine's power to erase abundance [[Genesis 41:20]].
* `{{H1320}}` **bâsâr** (flesh): This term is joined with `{{H7534}}` to create the specific description "lean**fleshed**" [[Genesis 41:19]], emphasizing that the thinness is physical and bodily. It is more broadly used to mean flesh, body, or person [[Jeremiah 32:27]].
* `{{H7451}}` **raʻ** (bad or evil): Used to mean "ill-favoured," this adjective is paired with `{{H7534}}` in all three of its appearances. This consistent association links the physical state of being thin directly to a condition of calamity or badness [[Genesis 41:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7534}}` is found in its powerful symbolism within its narrative context.
* **Symbol of Famine:** The primary function of `{{H7534}}` is to personify scarcity. The **thin** kine represent the seven years of famine that would devour the resources of the plentiful years that preceded them [[Genesis 41:27]].
* **Representation of Calamity:** By always appearing alongside "ill favoured" `{{H7451}}`, the word connects physical emaciation to a state of adversity and distress, making the image of the lean cows a potent forecast of hardship [[Genesis 41:19]].
* **Contrast for Divine Providence:** The stark visual of the **lean** `{{H7534}}` kine consuming the "fat" `{{H1277}}` kine serves as a narrative device to underscore God's sovereignty over both prosperity and hardship as revealed in the dream [[Genesis 41:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7534}}` is a highly specific term whose meaning is entirely drawn from its role in Pharaoh's dream. It functions not as a broad theological concept but as a vivid adjective giving form to famine and calamity. By describing the kine as **"lean"** and **"thin"** ([[Genesis 41:20]], [[Genesis 41:27]]), the word provides a memorable, physical image of scarcity that is pivotal to the story of Joseph in Egypt.
TRV