רָמַם
to rise (literally or figuratively)
Definition
The Hebrew verb רָמַם (râmam) fundamentally means 'to rise' or 'to be high,' describing both physical and metaphorical elevation. In its literal sense, it refers to the physical rising or lifting up of an object, as seen in Ezekiel's vision where the cherubim 'rose up' from the earth (Ezekiel 10:15, 17). Figuratively, it conveys exaltation, pride, or being lifted in status. For instance, in Psalm 118:16, it describes the exaltation of God's right hand in victory, while in Job 24:24, it is used negatively for the brief, prideful 'lifting up' of the wicked before their downfall.
Biblical Usage
This verb is used only six times in the Old Testament, appearing in poetic (Job, Psalms) and prophetic (Ezekiel) books, as well as narrative (Numbers). In Numbers 16:45, it describes the congregation gathering or 'rising up' against Moses and Aaron. In Ezekiel's vision (Ezekiel 10:15, 17, 19), it repeatedly depicts the cherubim's physical ascent. The usage in Psalm 118:16 is a declaration of God's exalted power, and in Job 24:24, it illustrates the fleeting pride of the wicked.
Etymology
רָמַם (râmam) is a primitive root, closely related to the more common root רום (rûm, H7311), which also means 'to be high' or 'exalted.' This connection places it within a semantic field of height and exaltation. The doubling of the middle consonant (mem) might suggest an intensive or iterative action, emphasizing the act of rising or making high.
Semantic Range
This word enriches the biblical theme of exaltation, contrasting human pride with divine sovereignty. In Job 24:24, the 'lifting up' of the wicked is temporary and judged by God, highlighting the folly of human arrogance. Conversely, in Psalm 118:16, the exaltation belongs to the Lord, affirming His saving power. Understanding this verb helps readers discern between illegitimate self-exaltation and the rightful lifting up that comes from God, a key concept in biblical wisdom and prophecy.
In the ancient Near Eastern context, 'rising up' or being 'high' was a powerful metaphor for authority, victory, and divine status. The physical rising of the cherubim in Ezekiel's vision would have communicated God's majestic mobility and transcendence to the original audience. The concept of a person being 'lifted up' often carried connotations of pride and presumption, which were serious cultural and religious offenses.
רום (rûm, H7311) — A more frequent root with a broader range of meanings for being high, exalted, or lifting up. נשא (nāśā’, H5375) — Often means 'to lift, carry, or bear,' focusing more on the action of raising a load rather than the state of being high. גבה (gāḇâh, H1361) — Means 'to be high or exalted,' often describing a lofty position or prideful attitude.
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.
Full methodology & sources →