### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **riqqâbôwn**, represented by `{{H7539}}`, signifies **decay** or something that is **rotten**. Its rarity is notable, as it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting a very specific and impactful usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7539}}` is found in the book of Job, in a description of the might of the Leviathan. In this context, God illustrates the creature's invulnerability by stating that it considers materials of human strength, like brass, to be no more than **rotten** wood [[Job 41:27]]. The word emphasizes a state of complete worthlessness and structural failure, creating a stark contrast with the inherent strength of the metal it is compared to.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words in its only context help frame the meaning of `{{H7539}}`:
* `{{H2803}}` **châshab** (to think, regard, value, compute): This word, translated as "esteemeth" in [[Job 41:27]], is crucial. It shows that the comparison is one of perceived value. The Leviathan mentally regards strong materials as worthless. This same word is used when God **thinks** thoughts of peace [[Jeremiah 29:11]].
* `{{H5154}}` **nᵉchûwshâh** (copper; brass, steel): This is the metal that the Leviathan equates with **rotten** wood. Elsewhere, it symbolizes great strength, as in the "gates of brass" [[Isaiah 45:2]] or a stubborn "brow of brass" [[Isaiah 48:4]].
* `{{H6086}}` **ʻêts** (wood): This is the material described as being **rotten**. While it can refer to a strong, living tree [[Psalms 1:3]], in this verse its state of decay renders it a symbol of weakness.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7539}}` comes from its singular, powerful use to illustrate a divine lesson.
* **Divine vs. Human Perspective:** The word is used to show a radical difference in perspective. What man values as strong, like brass `{{H5154}}`, is regarded by God's creation as something that has undergone decay and is **rotten** [[Job 41:27]].
* **Futility of Material Strength:** By comparing brass to **rotten** wood `{{H6086}}`, the verse teaches about the absolute sovereignty of God and the ultimate futility of human strength and technology when measured against divine power.
* **Symbol of Complete Failure:** The choice of the word **riqqâbôwn** implies not just weakness but a complete collapse of integrity. It represents something that was once strong but is now useless due to decay, a powerful metaphor for how human might appears before God.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7539}}` **riqqâbôwn** is a highly specific term for **rottenness** and decay. Its lone appearance in scripture is a masterclass in contrast, used to describe how the mighty Leviathan esteems one of man's strongest materials, brass, as nothing more than decayed wood. It serves as a potent reminder of the vast difference between divine and human perspectives on power and value.
TRV