רַ֫הַב (ra.hav)
ra.hav
Rahab
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The proper noun Rahab appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, serving as a poetic and symbolic title for Egypt rather than a personal name. In these instances, the word functions as an emblematic label, equating the powerful nation with a figure of immense size and defiance. This usage transforms a geopolitical entity into a mythological archetype, allowing the prophets to describe historical events through the lens of ancient cosmic battles.
Etymologically, the term is linked to concepts of storminess, pride, or arrogance. By applying this name to Egypt, the biblical authors highlight the nation’s haughty resistance against God’s authority. The imagery draws on older Canaanite myths where sea monsters represent chaotic forces; here, Egypt is cast in that role as a proud power that must be subdued by the Creator.
The word occurs in Isaiah 30:7 and Psalm 89:10. In Psalm 89, God’s victory over Rahab illustrates His sovereignty over the chaotic waters, reinforcing the theme that no earthly power can withstand divine command. This poetic identification reminds readers that political might is ultimately subject to God’s judgment.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Rahab appears only twice in the Hebrew Bible, but its impact is far greater than its frequency might suggest. In these passages, it is not a personal name for an individual, but a poetic title for Egypt. The prophets used this word to describe a nation defined by pride and chaotic power, standing in direct opposition to God’s order.
When Isaiah calls Egypt "Rahab who sits still," he strips away the illusion of political strength. The imagery reminds us that no earthly empire, no matter how large or seemingly invincible, can withstand the authority of the Creator. This metaphor draws on ancient cosmic battles, where chaotic forces are subdued by divine command.
For your faith, this offers a profound comfort. It assures you that God’s sovereignty extends over all nations and history. When you feel overwhelmed by the instability of the world or the arrogance of powerful systems, remember that the same God who subdued Rahab remains in control. His peace is not dependent on the stability of human powers.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Rahab2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- רַ֥הַב2×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 30:7
For Egypt helps in vain, and to no purpose; therefore I have called her Rahab who sits still.
This verse explicitly identifies Egypt as 'Rahab,' using the term to highlight how its military strength is ultimately futile against God's purpose.
-
Psalms 87:4
I will record Rahab and Babylon among those who acknowledge me. Behold, Philistia, Tyre, and also Ethiopia: “This one was born there.”
Here Rahab is listed alongside Babylon, showing that even the most powerful and proud nations are recorded among those who acknowledge God.