רֶ֫צֶף (re.tseph)
re.tseph
Rezeph
N:N--LQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N--L
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun reṣep refers to a specific location known as Rezeph, identified in ancient texts as "a hot stone." This name likely describes either the local geology or perhaps a distinctive landmark that stood out in the landscape of the region.
Rezeiph appears in only two biblical passages: 2 Kings 19:12 and Isaiah 37:13. In these verses, the Assyrian king Rabshakeh lists conquered cities to intimidate Jerusalem’s defenders. By mentioning Rezeph alongside other places like Hamath and Arpad, he attempts to prove that no city can withstand the power of his empire.
The word itself carries no theological weight beyond its geographical function. It serves as one item in a list of military victories, highlighting the historical reality of Assyrian expansion during the reigns of the Judean kings. Its brevity underscores how quickly these towns were absorbed into the empire’s territory.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Rezeph appears in two nearly identical passages where the Assyrian commander lists conquered cities to intimidate Jerusalem’s defenders. This brief mention highlights how quickly small towns were absorbed into the empire, serving as a stark reminder of human power and its fleeting nature.
When faced with overwhelming odds, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by circumstances that seem beyond control. The biblical record shows that even when enemies boast of their victories, God’s purposes remain unchanged. This word reminds us that no earthly force can ultimately thwart divine plans.
For your faith, this passage offers comfort in times of uncertainty. It encourages trust in God’s sovereignty rather than fear of human threats. The same God who protected Jerusalem then remains faithful today, offering peace and hope to all who rely on Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Rezeph2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/רֶ֥צֶף2×
Key Verses
-
II Kings 19:12
Have the gods of the nations delivered them, which my fathers have destroyed—Gozan, Haran, Rezeph, and the children of Eden who were in Telassar?
This verse lists Rezeph among conquered cities to demonstrate Assyrian power, contrasting human military success with God's enduring protection of Jerusalem.
-
Isaiah 37:12
Have the gods of the nations delivered them, which my fathers have destroyed, Gozan, Haran, Rezeph, and the children of Eden who were in Telassar?
The parallel account in Isaiah reinforces the historical context while emphasizing that no city, including Rezeph, could stand against Assyria yet still fall short of threatening God's people.