The Greek word Rhacháb, represented by G4477, identifies Rachab, a Canaanitess. It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. Its sole usage places her as a key maternal figure in a significant biblical genealogy.
In the biblical narrative, G4477 is used exclusively within the genealogy recorded in Matthew. The verse establishes her place in the lineage: "Salmon G4533 begat G1080 Booz G1003 of G1537 Rachab G4477" Matthew 1:5. Through this statement, she is identified as the mother of Booz.
Several related words provide context for Rachab's role in the lineage:
- G4533 Salmṓn (Salmon, an Israelite): The father of Rachab's son, Booz. The genealogy also identifies Salmon as the son of Naasson Matthew 1:4.
- G1003 Boóz (Booz, an Israelite): The son of Salmon and Rachab. He, in turn, is the father of Obed Matthew 1:5.
- G4503 Rhoúth (Ruth, a Moabitess): The woman through whom Booz begat Obed. Her inclusion as a Moabitess is noted in the same genealogical list as Rachab Matthew 1:5.
- G1080 gennáō (to procreate, bear, beget): This verb is used to establish the generational links, defining Rachab's role as one who gives birth to the next person in the line Matthew 1:5.
The theological weight of G4477 is tied to its placement within this specific genealogy.
- Inclusion in the Lineage: The single mention of G4477 solidifies Rachab's place in the genealogy recorded in the Gospel of Matthew Matthew 1:5.
- Ancestress of Key Figures: The lineage continues from her son Booz to Obed, and then to Jesse Matthew 1:5. Jesse is identified as the father of David the king Matthew 1:6.
- Canaanitess in an Israelite Line: The definition for G4477 explicitly identifies her as a Canaanitess. She appears in the same lineage as G4503 Rhoúth, who is identified as a Moabitess Matthew 1:5.
In summary, G4477 Rhacháb is a name whose significance is derived entirely from its single appearance in scripture. While mentioned only once, her position as a Canaanitess and the mother of Booz makes her an important figure in the ancestral line that includes Jesse and David the king Matthew 1:5-6. Her inclusion highlights a specific link in the chain of generations recorded in the Bible.
TRV