### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chîyrâh**, represented by `{{H2437}}`, is the proper name **Hirah**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is derived from a root suggesting splendor and identifies a specific individual, an Adullamite, who was a companion to Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H2437}}` are found in Genesis 38, where Hirah is introduced as a specific person with whom Judah associates. In the narrative, after separating from his brethren, Judah "turned in to a certain Adullamite, whose name was Hirah" [[Genesis 38:1]]. Later, following the death of his wife, Judah is accompanied by "his friend Hirah the Adullamite" when he goes to his sheepshearers [[Genesis 38:12]]. Hirah’s presence frames this specific period in Judah’s life.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define Hirah's identity and relationship to Judah:
* `{{H5726}}` **ʻĂdullâmîy** (an Adullamite or native of Adullam): This patrial term is used in both verses to specify Hirah's origin, identifying him as a native of Adullam ([[Genesis 38:1]], [[Genesis 38:12]]).
* `{{H7453}}` **rêaʻ** (an associate... friend): This word explicitly defines Hirah's relationship to Judah as his "friend," highlighting their companionship [[Genesis 38:12]].
* `{{H376}}` **ʼîysh** (a man as an individual or a male person): This general term for "man" is used to first introduce Hirah as "a certain Adullamite," emphasizing his identity as a specific individual before his name is given [[Genesis 38:1]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H2437}}` lies in its ability to ground the story of Judah in specific relationships.
* **Personal Association:** Hirah is not an anonymous figure but a named individual, giving substance to Judah's life outside his immediate family. Judah "went down from his brethren" to associate with Hirah [[Genesis 38:1]].
* **Role of Friendship:** The designation of Hirah as Judah's "friend" `{{H7453}}` provides context for his presence during a time of grief and transition for Judah, as he was "comforted" and then went up to Timnath with Hirah [[Genesis 38:12]].
* **Geographic Identity:** Hirah is consistently identified as an "Adullamite" `{{H5726}}`, linking Judah's story to a specific place and a non-Israelite individual, which is a key element of the events in Genesis 38.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2437}}` functions exclusively as the proper name Hirah. While appearing only twice, its use is critical in the narrative of Genesis 38. It serves to identify a key associate in Judah's life, defining him by his name, his origin as an Adullamite, and his role as a friend, thereby providing important context for one of the pivotal chapters in Judah's story.
TRV