Hebrew · Strong's H7311
רוּם
(room)
verb
To be high, to rise, or to lift up, with various applications both literal and figurative.
The Hebrew verb רוּם (rûm) carries the fundamental meaning of being high, rising, or lifting up. This broad semantic range allows it to be used in diverse contexts, from the physical act of raising an object to the figurative elevation of a person or concept. The term can describe the literal raising of a stone into a pillar (Gen. 31:45) or the offering of a portion of grain as a heave offering (Num. 15:20). It also encompasses the idea of making something high or exalting it, as seen in the description of trees set on high by waters (Ezek. 31:4) or a person being set up on a high place (Ps. 27:5). The theological weight of רוּם often revolves around God's sovereignty and praise. God is often depicted as lifting up or exalting individuals or nations, and conversely, his people are called to extol and lift up his name.
In a more negative sense, רוּם can denote haughtiness or pride, where an individual elevates themselves presumptuously. However, its primary use highlights actions of elevating or being elevated, whether literally or metaphorically. The concept of a 'heave offering' (terumah), derived from this root, is significant in the cultic life of Israel, representing a portion lifted up and set apart for the Lord. This act of lifting symbolizes consecration and dedication.
Throughout the Old Testament, רוּם consistently conveys the idea of upward movement or a state of being elevated. This can range from a simple physical act to a profound theological declaration about God's exalted nature or humanity's appropriate response of praise and worship.
Common English renderings
- bring up
- exalt
- extol
- lift up
- set up
- heave
Key verses
"And Jacob took a stone, and set it up for a pillar."
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"The waters nourished it, the deep made it to grow: the rivers thereof ran round about its plantation; and it sent out its channels unto all the trees of the field."
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"Of the first of your dough ye shall offer up a cake for a heave-offering: as the heave-offering of the threshing-floor, so shall ye heave it."
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"I will extol thee, my God, O King; And I will bless thy name for ever and ever."
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"For in the day of trouble he will keep me secretly in his pavilion: In the covert of his tabernacle will he hide me; He will lift me up upon a rock."
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