Original Word: רֶשֶׁף
Part of Speech: Proper Name Masculine
Transliteration: Resheph
Pronunciation: REH-shehf
Phonetic Spelling: (reh'-shef)
Definition: Flame, burning, plague, pestilence
Meaning: Resheph

Resheph

The same as resheph; Resheph, an Israelite -- Resheph.

see HEBREW resheph

Word Origin
from the same as resheph
Definition
an Ephraimite
NASB Translation
Resheph (1).

II. רֶ֫שֶׁף proper name, masculine in Ephraim, 1 Chronicles 7:25; Σαραφ, A Ρασεφ ᵐ5^L Ρασηφ.

Word Origin: Derived from the root רָשַׁף (H7521), which means "to burn" or "to kindle."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: There are no direct Greek equivalents for Resheph in the Strong's Concordance, as it is a specific proper noun related to a Canaanite deity. However, concepts related to pestilence and destruction can be found in Greek terms such as λοιμός (G3061) for "pestilence" or φλόγα (G5395) for "flame."

Usage: In the Hebrew Bible, Resheph is used to refer to a deity or personification of plague and destruction. It appears in poetic and prophetic contexts, often symbolizing divine judgment or calamity.

Context: Resheph is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as a figure associated with destruction and pestilence. In Habakkuk 3:5, Resheph is depicted as accompanying God in a theophany, symbolizing the destructive power that follows divine presence: "Plague went before Him, and pestilence followed in His steps." This verse highlights Resheph's role as an agent of divine judgment, emphasizing the fearsome and awe-inspiring nature of God's intervention in the world.

The name Resheph is also found in ancient Near Eastern texts, where it is associated with a deity of war and pestilence, often depicted with a bow and arrows. This aligns with the biblical portrayal of Resheph as a bringer of calamity. The imagery of fire and burning, inherent in the root of the name, underscores the destructive and purifying aspects of this figure.

In the broader cultural context, Resheph was worshiped in various forms across the Levant, and his attributes were sometimes syncretized with other deities. The biblical usage of Resheph serves as a reminder of the power and sovereignty of God over all forces, both natural and supernatural.

וְרֶ֧שֶׁף ורשף veReshef wə·re·šep̄ wərešep̄Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts