from רָקַק in its original sense of diffusing; a beach (as expanded shingle); Rakkath, a place in Palestine; Rakkath.
Transliteration:Raqqath
Pronunciation:rak-kath'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The lemma רַקַּת (Raqqath, `{{H7557}}`) derives from the root רָקַק (raqaq), which inherently carries the sense of "diffusing," "spreading out," or "spitting/sputtering." The noun form רַקַּת specifically denotes a "beach" or "shoreline," conceptualized as an "expanded shingle" or a place where material (like pebbles, sand) has spread out and diffused along the water's edge. This etymological connection highlights the physical characteristic of a beach as an area of expansion and diffusion, distinct from the more solid landmass or the open water. While the primary meaning is geographical, its use as a proper noun for a specific location in ancient Israel means its semantic range is practically limited to that single referent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term רַקַּת (Raqqath, `{{H7557}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Joshua 19:35]]. In this sole occurrence, Raqqath is listed as one of the fortified cities within the tribal inheritance of Naphtali. The verse reads: "And the fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth," (ESV, with Rakkath). The context is a geographical listing, detailing the boundaries and cities allotted to the various Israelite tribes after the conquest of Canaan. This places Raqqath firmly within the historical and geographical landscape of ancient Israel. Its precise location is generally identified with Tell el-Quneitîreh, near Tiberias on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. This identification aligns perfectly with the root meaning of "beach" or "shoreline," suggesting the city was situated near the water, perhaps even deriving its name from its coastal position on the lake. The mention of Raqqath among "fortified cities" indicates its strategic importance within the tribal territory, likely due to its access to the lake or its position along ancient trade routes.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Root רָקַק (raqaq):** While רָקַק itself is not directly used in the sense of a geographical feature in the Bible, its primary meaning of "to spit," "to diffuse," or "to spread out" provides the etymological foundation for רַקַּת. The concept of "spreading out" is crucial to understanding the "expanded shingle" or "beach" meaning.
* **Other geographical terms for bodies of water or land:**
* יָם (yam, `{{H3220}}`): "sea," "lake," or "large body of water." The Sea of Galilee, where Raqqath was located, is often referred to as a "sea" (יָם כִּנֶּרֶת, Yam Kinneret, "Sea of Kinnereth").
* חוֹף (choph, `{{H2348}}`): "coast," "shore," "haven." This term explicitly refers to the edge of a sea or river, similar in concept to "beach."
* גְּבוּל (gevul, `{{H1366}}`): "border," "territory," "boundary." This term is highly relevant as Raqqath is listed within the *boundaries* of Naphtali's inheritance.
* **Cities in tribal allotments:** The listing of Raqqath alongside other cities like Hammath and Chinnereth places it within the broader biblical theme of land distribution and tribal identity, a central concern in the book of Joshua.
### Theological Significance
While רַקַּת (Raqqath, `{{H7557}}`) as a proper noun does not carry inherent theological weight in itself, its inclusion in the tribal allotments in Joshua is imbued with significant theological meaning. The meticulous detailing of land distribution in Joshua underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant promises made to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan ([[Genesis 12:7]], [[Genesis 15:18-21]]). Each city, including Raqqath, represents a tangible fulfillment of divine promise. The naming of cities, often reflecting geographical features (like "beach" for Raqqath), highlights the intimate connection between the people of Israel and the land God provided. The land itself becomes a testament to God's providence and a stage for His ongoing redemptive work. Furthermore, the establishment of these cities, including Raqqath, within defined tribal territories, speaks to the divine order and organization within the nascent Israelite nation. It reflects God's design for His people to dwell securely and prosper in the land He bequeathed to them. Raqqath, though a minor detail in the grand narrative, contributes to the overall picture of God's sovereign hand guiding His people into their inheritance, transforming the promise of a land into the reality of specific cities and territories.
### Summary
The Hebrew term רַקַּת (Raqqath, `{{H7557}}`) originates from the root רָקַק, meaning "to diffuse" or "spread out," and thus denotes a "beach" or "expanded shingle." Its sole biblical appearance is as a proper noun in [[Joshua 19:35]], identifying a fortified city within the tribal inheritance of Naphtali. Located near the Sea of Galilee, its name likely reflects its coastal position. While semantically limited to this single geographical reference, Raqqath's inclusion in the tribal allotments underscores the theological themes of God's covenant faithfulness, the fulfillment of His promises regarding the land of Canaan, and the divine ordering of the Israelite nation. It is a subtle yet significant detail in the biblical narrative of divine providence and inheritance.
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