The Hebrew word Ṭebach, represented by H2875, primarily functions as a proper name, Tebah. Its base definition also means massacre. It is a very specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text, where it identifies a single individual within a Mesopotamian lineage.
The sole appearance of H2875 is in the genealogical records of Genesis. In this passage, Tebah is named as one of the sons bare H3205 by Reumah, the concubine H6370 of Nahor, Abraham's brother. The verse states, "And his concubine, whose name was Reumah, she bare also Tebah, and Gaham, and Thahash, and Maachah" Genesis 22:24. This mention serves to document the expansion of Nahor's family line.
Several related words provide context for Tebah's identity and familial setting:
- H6370 pîylegesh (a concubine): This term defines the status of Tebah's mother, Reumah. The role of a concubine in bearing children for a patriarch is a recurring theme, also seen with Abraham Genesis 25:6 and Jacob Genesis 35:22.
- H3205 yâlad (to bear young): This verb describes the act of Reumah giving birth to Tebah and his brothers. It is a fundamental word used to establish lineage and declare pedigrees throughout scripture Genesis 22:24.
- H1514 Gacham (Gaham): This is the name of one of Tebah's brothers, listed immediately after him in the same birth announcement Genesis 22:24.
- H8477 Tachash (Thahash): Another of Tebah's brothers, listed alongside him, Gaham, and Maachah as a son of Nahor's concubine Genesis 22:24.
- H4601 Maʻăkâh (Maachah): The last of the brothers named in this specific lineage, connecting Tebah to other figures and places that would later bear the same name H8034 Genesis 22:24.
The theological and narrative weight of H2875 is centered on its role within the biblical genealogies.
- Documenting Lineage: The name's primary function is to contribute to the comprehensive record of Abraham's extended family, establishing the lineage of his brother Nahor.
- The Role of Concubines: The context of Tebah's birth from a concubine H6370 is significant, illustrating a common practice in the patriarchal era for the continuation of a family line, as also seen with Abraham's household Genesis 25:6.
- Establishing Posterity: By recording the name H8034 of each son, including Tebah, the narrative emphasizes the theme of posterity and the careful tracking of descendants that is foundational to the covenant promises in Genesis.
In summary, H2875 is a highly specific term used as the proper name Tebah. Its single occurrence in Genesis 22:24 firmly places it within a genealogical context, serving to document the family of Abraham's brother. While its root definition is "massacre," its biblical usage is strictly as a personal name, contributing a small but precise detail to the sprawling family histories of the Old Testament.
TRV