רָבַב
properly, to cast together , i.e. increase, especially in number; to multiply by the myriad
Definition
The Hebrew verb רָבַב (râbab) fundamentally means 'to be or become many, to multiply, to increase greatly in number.' It often describes a dramatic numerical increase, whether of people (Genesis 6:1), troubles (Psalm 25:19), or enemies (Psalm 3:1). In some contexts, it carries the intensified sense of multiplying by the myriad or ten thousandfold, emphasizing an immense, almost uncountable abundance. This sense of vast multiplication is seen in its denominative use related to 'ten thousand' (רְבָבָה, H7233), as in 1 Samuel 18:7-8, where the women sing of Saul slaying his thousands and David his ten thousands.
Biblical Usage
רָבַב is used 17 times, primarily in poetic and wisdom literature (Psalms, Job) and narrative (Genesis, 1 Samuel). It frequently appears in laments, describing the multiplication of adversaries, troubles, or sins that overwhelm the psalmist (e.g., Psalm 38:19, 69:4). In narrative, it describes the increase of humanity (Genesis 6:1) or is used in hyperbolic speech, as in Nabal's rhetorical question about multiplying bread and water (1 Samuel 25:10-11). The word consistently conveys a significant, often overwhelming, numerical increase.
Etymology
רָבַב is a primitive root. It is etymologically connected to רָבִיב (H7241, 'shower'), suggesting an idea of pouring forth or being abundant. It also functions as a denominative verb from the noun רְבָבָה (H7233, 'ten thousand, myriad'), meaning 'to be or have ten thousands.' This connection solidifies its association with vast, multiplied numbers.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it is used to describe both divine blessing (the multiplication of people) and human predicament (the multiplication of enemies and sin). It underscores the biblical theme of fruitfulness and increase as part of God's mandate and blessing (cf. Genesis). Conversely, its use in the Psalms highlights the reality of overwhelming opposition faced by the faithful, driving them to depend on God for deliverance. Understanding this range enriches reading by showing how 'increase' can be a sign of either God's favor or the challenges of a fallen world.
In an ancient Near Eastern context, numerical increase—of children, livestock, and wealth—was a primary measure of success, blessing, and security. The concept of multiplying 'by ten thousands' (רְבָבָה) represented the pinnacle of abundance and military might, a hyperbolic ideal of uncountable prosperity. This contrasts with modern, more statistical understandings of growth.
רָבָה (râbâh, H7235) — A more general and common verb for 'to be great, many, or increase'; רָבַב often implies a more intensive or specific multiplication. פָּרָה (pârâh, H6509) — Means 'to bear fruit, be fruitful,' focusing on productive increase, often of offspring. עָצַם (ʿâtsam, H6105) — Means 'to be vast, mighty, or numerous,' with a stronger connotation of power or strength alongside multitude.
Word Details
How this works
Hebrew definitions are from Brown-Driver-Briggs (1906) and Strong's Exhaustive Concordance (1890), both public domain. BDB was groundbreaking for its era but reflects 19th-century assumptions about Semitic etymology. Modern scholarship (HALOT, DCH) has revised many entries. Use these definitions as a starting point for exploration, not as the final word on a term's meaning in context.
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