### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sᵉdêrâh**, represented by `{{H7713}}`, is derived from a root meaning to regulate. It denotes a **row, rank, or range**. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses, with its meaning shifting between architectural and military contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7713}}` describes both building materials and military formations. In the construction of the temple, it is used to mean **boards** of cedar, highlighting a structured, orderly row of materials [[1 Kings 6:9]]. In a different context, it signifies the **ranges** or ranks of soldiers established to protect the king and to control access to sacred or secured areas. An order is given to kill anyone who crosses these military **ranges** [[2 Kings 11:8]], and the condemned Queen Athaliah is forcibly brought out past these very ranks ([[2 Kings 11:15]], [[2 Chronicles 23:14]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{H7713}}` is used:
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (captain, chief, ruler): This term is used for the military commanders who set the **ranges** `{{H7713}}` of soldiers in formation. Jehoiada the priest gives his commands to these captains ([[2 Kings 11:15]], [[2 Chronicles 23:14]]).
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil** (army, host, band of men): This word describes the military force or **host** from which the **ranges** `{{H7713}}` are formed. The captains are officers over this host ([[2 Kings 11:15]], [[2 Chronicles 23:14]]).
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (house, temple, palace): This word is central to both uses of **sᵉdêrâh**. The **boards** `{{H7713}}` are used to build the **house** [[1 Kings 6:9]], and the military **ranges** `{{H7713}}` are set to protect the king or to prevent a slaying in the **house** of the LORD [[2 Kings 11:15]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H7713}}` is tied to the idea of regulated order and the establishment of boundaries.
* **Structural Order:** As **boards** used in the temple, the word signifies the precise, orderly, and beautiful construction of a sacred space, reflecting divine design and regulation [[1 Kings 6:9]].
* **Military Discipline:** As **ranges** of soldiers, it represents a line of defense, authority, and disciplined power. The formation creates a boundary that protects the king and enforces judgment [[2 Kings 11:8]].
* **Defining a Boundary:** In both architectural and military applications, **sᵉdêrâh** functions to create a clear division. Whether a wall of cedar boards or a wall of armed men, it establishes a perimeter with defined consequences for those who would breach it.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7713}}` is a specific term that conveys the idea of a regulated row. Though appearing infrequently, it is used with precision to describe either architectural components like **boards** or disciplined military formations like **ranks** or **ranges**. The word consistently implies a sense of order, structure, and the creation of a significant boundary, whether in building God's house or in protecting His anointed king.
TRV