רָבַב

רָבַב

to shoot an arrow

Definition

The Hebrew verb רָבַב (râbab) primarily means 'to shoot' or 'to shoot an arrow.' It describes the physical action of launching an arrow from a bow, as seen in Genesis 21:20 where Ishmael becomes an archer. In a metaphorical sense, it can depict God's powerful and targeted judgment, such as in Psalm 18:14 where God 'shoots' His arrows (lightning bolts) as part of a theophany. The usage in Genesis 49:23, describing archers who 'shot' at Joseph, carries both a literal sense of attack and a figurative sense of hostile opposition.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only three times in the Old Testament, exclusively in poetic or narrative contexts. It appears in historical narrative (Genesis 21:20), prophetic poetry (Genesis 49:23), and a royal psalm of thanksgiving (Psalm 18:14). The pattern shows its use for both human skill in archery and as a vivid image for divine action. In each case, the action is intentional and directed—whether it's Ishmael's survival skill, the hostility against Joseph, or God's majestic display of power.

Etymology

רָבַב (râbab) is considered a primitive root. It is closely related to, and likely identical with, רָבַב (H7231), which carries the idea of multiplying or increasing. The connection between the two roots may lie in the concept of projection—an arrow 'multiplying' or extending its presence through the air as it is shot. This root is distinct from the more common Hebrew word for 'bow' (קֶשֶׁת, qeshet).

Semantic Range

While primarily describing a physical action, רָבַב gains theological significance in Psalm 18:14 (paralleled in 2 Samuel 22:15). Here, 'shooting' is an action attributed to God, portraying Him as a divine warrior executing judgment with precision and power. This imagery enriches our understanding of God's active involvement in delivering His people and administering justice. It transforms the simple act of archery into a metaphor for God's sovereign and targeted intervention in the world. In ancient Near Eastern culture, archery was a critical skill for hunting, warfare, and survival. A proficient archer, like Ishmael (Genesis 21:20), could provide for and protect a family or tribe. The metaphor in Psalm 18:14 would have been immediately understood by an ancient audience familiar with the power and terror of a storm, which was often depicted in Canaanite and other regional mythologies as the weapons of a storm god. The biblical author appropriates this imagery to describe Yahweh's supreme power. יָרָה (yârâh, H3384) — a more general term meaning to throw, shoot, or cast, often used for teaching or pointing. דָּרַךְ (dârakh, H1869) — specifically means to tread or bend a bow in preparation for shooting.

Word Details