רֹכֶס
a snare (as of tied meshes)
Definition
רֹכֶס (rôkeç) refers to a snare or trap, specifically one made of tied meshes or nets used for capturing animals. In its single biblical occurrence in Psalm 31:20, it is used metaphorically to describe the hidden schemes or plots of arrogant people against the righteous. The word conveys the idea of a cunning, concealed danger that entangles its victim, much like a hunter's net. While the KJV translates it as 'pride,' modern versions often render it as 'plot,' 'scheme,' or 'arrogant talk,' emphasizing the treacherous intent behind the snare.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Psalm 31:20, where David praises God for hiding the faithful from the 'רֹכֶס' (plots or snares) of people. It is used in a poetic, metaphorical context to depict the malicious plans of the wicked, which are as hidden and dangerous as a physical trap. The usage highlights a contrast between God's protective shelter and the covert threats posed by human arrogance.
Etymology
רֹכֶס derives from the root רָכַס (rākhas, H7405), which means 'to bind' or 'to tie.' This root suggests the imagery of something being knotted or woven together, like the meshes of a net. The noun form thus naturally denotes a snare constructed by binding cords. Cognates in other Semitic languages also relate to binding or ensnaring, reinforcing the concept of entanglement.
Semantic Range
This word is theologically significant as it illustrates the nature of evil and divine protection. In Psalm 31:20, it portrays human arrogance and scheming as a hidden spiritual danger, contrasting with God's faithfulness in shielding the righteous. Understanding this Hebrew term enriches the reading of Psalms by emphasizing that God's deliverance is not just from obvious threats but from subtle, ensnaring plots, reinforcing themes of trust and refuge in God.
In ancient Israel, snares made of tied meshes were common hunting tools, familiar to people for capturing birds or small animals. This cultural reality made 'רֹכֶס' a powerful metaphor for hidden dangers or deceitful plans. Modern readers might miss the immediacy of this imagery, but in its original setting, it vividly conveyed the sudden, entrapping nature of malicious schemes, akin to an unexpected physical trap.
פַּח (pach, H6341) — a more general term for a bird-trap or snare, often used literally and metaphorically. מוֹקֵשׁ (môqēsh, H4170) — a bait or lure used in a snare, frequently implying enticement to sin. רֶשֶׁת (resheth, H7568) — a net, typically for fishing or hunting, emphasizing being spread out to catch.
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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