### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rôq**, represented by `{{H7536}}`, refers to **spittle**. It is defined as spittle; spit(-ting, -tle) and appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently conveying an act of contempt or a state of physical distress.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7536}}` denotes acts of deep contempt and moments of personal anguish. In a prophetic passage, the speaker endures "shame and **spitting**" as a form of suffering [[Isaiah 50:6]]. Similarly, Job describes his tormentors who "abhor me" and do not hesitate to "**spit** in my face" [[Job 30:10]]. In a different context, Job uses the term to express his exhaustion, asking for enough of a pause from his suffering "till I swallow down my **spittle**" [[Job 7:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the humiliation and suffering associated with spitting:
* `{{H8581}}` **taʻâb** (to loathe, i.e. (morally) detest): This word is directly linked to spitting as an act of contempt. Job states his accusers "**abhor**" him as part of the reason they spit in his face [[Job 30:10]].
* `{{H5221}}` **nâkâh** (to strike): In the context of suffering, this term appears alongside spitting. The prophet endures being given over to the "**smiters**" in the same passage that mentions "spitting" [[Isaiah 50:6]].
* `{{H4803}}` **mâraṭ** (pluck off (hair)): This action of humiliation is also paired with spitting. The same verse describes enduring cheeks given "to them that **plucked off** the hair" and a face not hidden from "shame and spitting" [[Isaiah 50:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7536}}` is found in its powerful symbolism.
* **Symbol of Humiliation and Contempt:** Spitting is not just a physical act but a potent symbol of rejection and abhorrence, as seen when Job's tormentors express their loathing for him [[Job 30:10]].
* **Component of Prophetic Suffering:** The act is endured by the servant figure in Isaiah, who "gave" his back to smiters and did not hide his face from "shame and **spitting**," indicating a willing acceptance of profound disgrace [[Isaiah 50:6]].
* **Metaphor for Human Anguish:** Job uses the time it takes to swallow his own spittle as a metaphor for the briefest possible moment of relief he desires from his suffering, highlighting his extreme and unrelenting condition [[Job 7:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7536}}` **rôq** is a specific and potent term for **spittle**. Though it appears only three times, it is used to illustrate profound concepts. It serves as a stark symbol of human contempt, as shown in the experiences of Job [[Job 30:10]], and is a key element in a prophecy of a figure who willingly endures humiliation [[Isaiah 50:6]]. Finally, it is used metaphorically to express the desire for even the smallest respite from overwhelming affliction [[Job 7:19]].
TRV