The meaning of “רָחַף”
Understanding râchaph reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
flutter, move, shake. - to brood - by implication, to be relaxed 1) (Qal) to grow soft, relax 2) (Piel) to hover
רָחַף
flutter, move, shake. - to brood - by implication, to be relaxed 1) (Qal) to grow soft, relax 2) (Piel) to hover
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis 1:2 | “And the earth was without form and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” Word: רָחַף (râchaph) | |
| Deuteronomy 32:11 | “As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings:” Word: רָחַף (râchaph) | |
| Jeremiah 23:9 | “Mine heart within me is broken because of the prophets; all my bones shake; I am like a drunken man, and like a man whom wine hath overcome, because of the Lord, and because of the words of his holiness.” Word: רָחַף (râchaph) |