Original Word: רָצַף
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: ratsaph
Pronunciation: rah-tsaf'
Phonetic Spelling: (raw-tsaf')
Definition: To crush, to pound, to press
Meaning: to tessellate, embroider

pave

A denominative from retseph; to tessellate, i.e. Embroider (as if with bright stones) -- pave.

see HEBREW retseph

Word Origin
a prim. root
Definition
to fit together, fit out
NASB Translation
fitted (1).

I. [רָצַף] verb fit together, fit out, si vera lectio (Ecclus 43:8d id. Pi`el pave (figurative; si vera lectio); Assyrian raƒâpu, join together, build; Arabic join together, compare DHM^{VOJ i. 30}, Sabean רצף, רצפם Id^ib. Hal^{JAS, 1872, Juin, 534}; Aramaic רְצַף, , arrange in a line; compare Aramaic רִצְמְּתָא, , Late Hebrew רְצְפָה, all = pavement); —

Qal Passive participle תּוֺכוֺ רָצוּף אַהֲבָה Songs 3:10 its interior fitted out (?) with love (Gr and others הָבְנִי ebony).

Word Origin: A primitive root

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The corresponding Greek entry in Strong's Concordance is G3038 (lithostrotos), which refers to a stone pavement or mosaic. This Greek term shares a conceptual link with רָצַף in its reference to a patterned or decorated surface, often used in the context of significant or ceremonial spaces. The use of lithostrotos in the New Testament, such as in John 19:13, where it describes the place where Pilate sat in judgment, underscores the cultural and architectural significance of tessellated or paved surfaces in both Hebrew and Greek traditions.

Usage: The verb רָצַף (ratsaf) is used in the context of overlaying or covering surfaces with a pattern, such as stones or tiles, and can also refer to the act of embroidery. This term is not frequently used in the Hebrew Bible, indicating a specialized or specific application.

Context: The Hebrew verb רָצַף (ratsaf) is a primitive root that conveys the action of covering or overlaying a surface with a patterned design, akin to tessellation or embroidery. This term is associated with craftsmanship and artistry, reflecting the cultural practices of decoration and design in ancient times. The act of tessellating or embroidering involves meticulous attention to detail and an aesthetic appreciation for patterns and textures. In the biblical context, such activities could be related to the construction and adornment of sacred spaces, garments, or other significant items, reflecting the importance of beauty and order in worship and daily life.

The concept of tessellation, as implied by רָצַף, suggests a harmonious and repetitive pattern, which can symbolize the order and structure inherent in creation. Embroidery, similarly, involves the embellishment of fabric with intricate designs, often used to convey status, identity, or religious significance. While the specific occurrences of רָצַף in the Hebrew Bible are limited, the underlying principles of beauty, craftsmanship, and order resonate throughout the scriptural narrative.

רָצ֣וּף רצוף rā·ṣūp̄ rāṣūp̄ raTzufInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts