Original Word: רָצַף
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: ratsaph
Pronunciation: rah-tsaf'
Phonetic Spelling: (raw-tsaf')
KJV: pave
NASB: fitted
Word Origin: [a denominative from H7529 (רֶצֶף - Live coal)]

1. to tessellate, i.e. embroider (as if with bright stones)

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).

Overview

Strong’s Hebrew 7528 (רָצַף) portrays the careful “inlaying” or “paving” of a surface with precious materials. The term evokes deliberate artistry, permanence, and a beauty that is both seen and felt. Its single biblical appearance anchors it firmly in the royal imagery of Solomon’s day, yet the idea reverberates through broader biblical themes of divine workmanship and covenant love.

Biblical Context

Song of Solomon 3:10 furnishes the solitary occurrence: “He made its posts of silver, its back of gold, its seat of purple; its interior inlaid with love by the daughters of Jerusalem.”

1. The setting is Solomon’s palanquin, an ornate bridal litter symbolizing security and intimacy.
2. The inlaying action highlights an interior focus—what is hidden from casual view is just as lavish as what is public.
3. The material beauty is surpassed by the intangible element of “love,” suggesting that relational devotion is the finest adornment.

Cultural Setting and Ancient Craftsmanship

In the Near Eastern royal courts, paved or inlaid surfaces (floors, thrones, chariots) advertised a ruler’s wealth and the skill of his artisans. Solomon, renowned for international trade (1 Kings 9:26–28) and architectural achievements (1 Kings 10:18–20), would naturally commission such embellishments. The verb points to high craftsmanship—perhaps mosaic, mother-of-pearl, semi-precious stones, or colored fabrics—secured so tightly that the surface appeared seamless and radiant.

Theological Themes

1. Covenant Love Displayed: The inlaying inside the palanquin echoes the inner reality of covenant love—costly, beautiful, and meant to endure (Song of Solomon 8:6–7).
2. Inner Transformation: Just as artisans fix each gem, the Lord “engraves” His law on the heart (Jeremiah 31:33), fashioning an interior holiness more valuable than external ritual.
3. Excellence in Worship: From the Tabernacle (Exodus 31:1–5) to the New Jerusalem’s foundations (Revelation 21:19–21), Scripture celebrates meticulous beauty dedicated to God. The verb subtly calls believers to offer their very best in service and worship.

Connections within the Canon

• 1 Kings 10:18–20 – Solomon’s throne, overlaid with ivory and gold, parallels the palanquin’s interior, reinforcing royal splendor.
• 1 Chronicles 29:2–5 – David’s provision of “onyx stones… and all kinds of precious stones in abundance” sets a precedent for lavish preparation for God’s dwelling.
• 1 Corinthians 3:10–15 – Paul’s imagery of building with gold, silver, and costly stones underscores the enduring value of works done in love, a spiritual counterpart to physical inlay.

Implications for Worship and Discipleship

1. Heart Adornment: Believers are exhorted to let Christ “dwell in your hearts through faith” (Ephesians 3:17), allowing the Spirit to inlay the inner man with love, purity, and wisdom.
2. Marital Reflection: Christian marriage mirrors the Song’s bridal imagery; spouses are called to cultivate an interior life filled with sacrificial love rather than mere outward displays.
3. Artistic Vocation: Artisans, musicians, and designers in the church can draw confidence from the biblical affirmation of beauty employed for godly purposes.

Pastoral and Homiletical Considerations

• Sermons can contrast superficial religiosity with the Spirit’s deep craftsmanship, urging congregations to submit to God’s shaping hand.
• Wedding messages may use the palanquin to picture a marriage “paved” with acts of love, kindness, and faithfulness.
• Discipleship curricula can incorporate creative arts, teaching that every vocation—manual, artistic, or intellectual—serves the kingdom when executed with excellence and devotion.

Concluding Summary

Though רָצַף appears only once, it opens a window onto the heart of Scripture: God values interiors—whether the hidden chamber of a royal palanquin or the unseen motives of a believer. By inviting the Master Craftsman to inlay our lives with His love, we reflect the glory that first shone in Solomon’s artistry and will one day blaze unhindered in the consummated kingdom.

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