רֵיחַ
𐤓𐤉𐤇
rêyach
H7382 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A smell, scent, or odor detected by the sense of smell. רֵיחַ refers broadly to any perceivable olfactory sensation, ranging from pleasant fragrances (such as perfumes or offerings) to unpleasant odors. In various contexts, it may denote the tangible quality or presence of a substance as sensed through smell.
Semantic Range
smell, scent, odor, aroma of substances (pleasant or unpleasant), metaphorical scent (repute, presence), fragrance of offerings, general olfactory perception
Root / Etymology
The root is ריח (resh-yod-chet), with the core meaning 'to smell' or 'to perceive an odor.' רֵיחַ is a noun form derived from this root, signifying the result or product of the action—namely, an odor or scent.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In Biblical Hebrew, רֵיחַ appears in both positive and negative contexts. It can describe the aroma of sacrificial offerings (often described as a 'pleasing scent'), the smell of perfumes or spices, but also malodors associated with rot or decay. The sense of smell held ritual and symbolic significance, notably in sacrificial contexts where the pleasing 'smell' signified acceptance. References to רֵיחַ do not necessarily correspond strictly to physical scent but may function metaphorically (e.g., referring to a person's reputation or presence). In Aramaic, as seen in biblical texts such as Daniel and Ezra, רֵיחַ carries the same essential meaning and is used similarly. English translations often select 'smell,' 'odor,' or 'scent,' but may underrepresent metaphorical nuances. The semantic scope broadly matches its Hebrew counterpart. When רֵיחַ denotes the 'smell' of offerings, English translations sometimes supply theological nuances not explicit in the original, which should be noted for accuracy.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
(Aramaic) corresponding to רֵיחַ; {odor (as if blown)}; smell.
Bantu Hebrew
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ריח (r-y-ḥ) — to smell, to detect scent, to perceive odor
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H7382-01 |
וְ/רֵ֣יחַ | vereycha | AC/Ncfsc |
and smell | and scent | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H7382-01 |
Daniel 3:27 | וְ/רֵ֣יחַ | vereycha | AC/Ncfsc |
and smell | and scent |