probably of Hebrew origin (apparently for רְפָיָה); Resa (i.e. Rephajah), an Israelite:--Rhesa.
Transliteration:Rhēsá
Pronunciation:hray-sah'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term `{{G4488}}` (Rhēsá) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name, appearing only once in the New Testament. Its base definition indicates a probable Hebrew origin, specifically a transliteration of רְפָיָה (Rephajah), found in the Old Testament. The Hebrew name רְפָיָה (Rephajah) is a theophoric name derived from the verb רָפָא (rapha), meaning "to heal" or "to restore," combined with יָהּ (Yah), a shortened form of Yahweh. Therefore, the core meaning of Rhēsá, through its Hebrew etymology, is "Yahweh has healed" or "Yahweh has restored." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to the identification of an individual within a specific lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of `{{G4488}}` (Rhēsá) is found in the Gospel of Luke's genealogy of Jesus Christ: [[Luke 3:27]]. In this passage, Rhesa is listed as the son of Zerubbabel and the father of Joanan. Luke's genealogy is distinct from Matthew's, tracing Jesus's lineage backward from Joseph (though understood as legal father) through Mary's lineage, all the way back to Adam, emphasizing Jesus's universal humanity and his connection to all of creation. Rhesa's position within this extensive lineage is crucial, as each name contributes to the unbroken chain of descent that culminates in the birth of the Messiah. While Rhesa himself is not the subject of any narrative, his inclusion underscores the meticulous record-keeping and the providential guidance that shaped the ancestry of Jesus, fulfilling ancient prophecies regarding the Messiah's lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that `{{G4488}}` (Rhēsá) is derived from the Hebrew רְפָיָה (Rephajah), it is etymologically linked to the Hebrew root רָפָא (rapha), which signifies "to heal," "to restore," or "to mend." This root is foundational to many biblical concepts concerning God's restorative power, both physically and spiritually. Other biblical figures bear names derived from this root, such as Rapha (the ancestor of a race of giants, `{{H7497}}`) or Rephaiah (several individuals in the Old Testament, `{{H7509}}`). The broader concept of divine healing (רְפֻאָה, `{{H7499}}`) and restoration is a pervasive theme throughout Scripture, culminating in the redemptive work of Christ. Furthermore, as an element within a genealogy, `{{G4488}}` is conceptually related to the biblical emphasis on lineage, covenant, and the unfolding of God's plan through generations, as seen in the genealogies of Genesis, Chronicles, Matthew, and Luke.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4488}}` (Rhēsá) primarily lies in its place within the divinely orchestrated lineage of Jesus Christ. While an obscure figure, his inclusion highlights the meticulous nature of God's sovereign plan, where every individual, known or unknown, plays a part in the grand narrative of salvation history. The etymological meaning of his name, "Yahweh has healed" or "Yahweh has restored," subtly echoes a core theological truth: God's continuous work of restoration throughout history, leading ultimately to the ultimate healing and restoration offered through Jesus Christ. Rhesa's presence in the genealogy reinforces the historical veracity and the deep-rooted Jewish identity of the Messiah, grounding the claims of Christ in a tangible, traceable human lineage chosen and guided by divine providence. It reminds us that God works through ordinary people and forgotten generations to bring about His extraordinary purposes.
### Summary
`{{G4488}}` (Rhēsá) is a Greek proper name found exclusively in [[Luke 3:27]], where it designates an ancestor of Jesus Christ. Derived from the Hebrew רְפָיָה (Rephajah), its etymological meaning is "Yahweh has healed" or "Yahweh has restored," subtly pointing to God's ongoing work of redemption. While Rhesa remains an otherwise unmentioned figure, his inclusion in Luke's genealogy underscores the historical reality of Jesus's lineage and God's meticulous providence in preparing the way for the Messiah. His name, like every other in the long line, testifies to God's faithfulness across generations, orchestrating human history to bring forth the ultimate Healer and Restorer, Jesus Christ.
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