Bible Dictionary
Explore biblical people, places, events, objects, ideas, and other terms. Search the dictionary directly, browse alphabetically, or narrow the list by category or Testament.
Rose
Agriculture & Daily Life - Both
The flower called “rose” in some English translations may have been a narcissus, autumn crocus, or another flowering plant; the exact identification is uncertain. Roses themselves were also known in Syria and Palestine.
Rosh
People & Groups - Old Testament
Rosh may be a proper name in Ezekiel’s prophecy, though some translations render it “chief.” It is also listed as a descendant of Benjamin in Genesis.
Rosin
Agriculture & Daily Life - Old Testament
“Rosin” is an older rendering of a word elsewhere translated “balm.” The term may refer to an aromatic gum, oil, or naphtha-like substance rather than modern pine rosin.
ROTE
Worship & Prayer - Old Testament
Learning by rote means repeating words or religious practices mechanically, without sincere understanding or devotion. Isaiah uses the idea to expose worship that honors God only outwardly.
ROYAL
Government & Society - Both
Royal means belonging to a king or possessing kingly dignity, authority, or power. Scripture speaks of royal cities, apparel, commands, and the Christian people as a royal priesthood.
Rubies
Objects & Symbols - Old Testament
The precious substance translated “rubies” in several passages is uncertain. It may refer to coral, pearls, or another bright reddish precious material.
Ruby
Objects & Symbols - Both
Ruby is a traditional translation of a Hebrew term for a valuable red precious stone or similar substance. Scripture compares wisdom and a virtuous woman with treasures of this kind.
Rudder bands
Agriculture & Daily Life - New Testament
Rudder bands were ropes or ties used to secure the large steering oars of an ancient ship. During Paul’s voyage to Rome, the sailors loosened them so the rudders could be lowered into the water.
RUDDY
Agriculture & Daily Life - Old Testament
Ruddy means reddish or having a clear, healthy complexion. In biblical descriptions it is used as a term of praise for human appearance.
RUDIMENTS
Doctrine & Theology - New Testament
Rudiments are elementary principles or first lessons. In Paul’s letters the term especially refers to the weak and preparatory ceremonial ordinances associated with the former religious order, in contrast with the fullness found in Christ.
Rue
Agriculture & Daily Life - New Testament
Rue was a strongly scented garden herb that the Pharisees carefully tithed. Jesus used it to expose their concern for minor religious details while neglecting justice and the love of God.
Rufus
People & Groups - New Testament
Rufus was the son of Simon of Cyrene, who was compelled to carry Jesus’ cross. Paul later greeted a Christian named Rufus in Rome, possibly the same man, whose mother had shown kindness to Paul.
RUG
Agriculture & Daily Life - Old Testament
Rug is a possible translation of a Hebrew word in Judges 4:18 meaning a mantle or thick covering. The precise rendering is uncertain.
Ruhamah
Prophecy - Old Testament
Ruhamah means “having obtained mercy.” It was a symbolic name associated with Hosea’s daughter and expressed restored compassion toward God’s people.
Ruhamah, Or Ruhamah
Prophecy - Old Testament
Ruhamah is a symbolic name meaning “having obtained mercy,” applied to the daughters of God’s people as a sign that compassion and love remained available to them.
RUIN
Sin & Judgment - Both
Ruin means the destruction or collapse of a building, state, people, or moral condition. Scripture also uses related terms for desolation, brokenness, and the disastrous results of wickedness.
Rumah
Places & Geography - Old Testament
Rumah was a town associated with Zebudah, the mother of King Jehoiakim. Its exact location is uncertain; proposed sites include a place near Shechem, Galilee, or Judah.
RUMP
Temple & Tabernacle - Old Testament
Rump in older Bible English may refer to the broad fat tail of a Syrian sheep. This choice portion was included among the parts of certain offerings burned on the altar.
RUNAGATE
Other - Old Testament
Runagate means a runaway or fugitive. In the older wording of Psalm 68:6 it refers to rebellious people, who are contrasted with those whom God settles in a home.
Rush
Agriculture & Daily Life - Old Testament
Rush can refer to papyrus or to various marsh and reed plants. Papyrus grew in Egypt and parts of Palestine and was used for light boats and writing material; other rushes symbolized humble people or fragile vegetation.
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