### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻÎyrâd**, represented by `{{H5897}}`, identifies an antediluvian patriarch. Its definition is **fugitive**. It appears **2 times** within **1 unique verse** in the Bible, and its sole function is to mark a specific individual in the early genealogies of Genesis.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Irad** `{{H5897}}` is mentioned exclusively within the lineage of Cain. The record states that **Irad** was born to Enoch and, in turn, became the father of Mehujael [[Genesis 4:18]]. This places him as the great-grandson of Cain and a key link in the generational record that continues to Lamech.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H5897}}` is defined by its place within a specific genealogical list, connecting him to his ancestors and descendants:
* `{{H2585}}` **Chănôwk** (initiated; Chanok, an antediluvian patriach; Enoch): The father of Irad. The text states that unto Enoch "was born Irad" [[Genesis 4:18]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; causatively, to beget...to show lineage): This verb establishes the generational links for Irad, stating he "was born" to Enoch and that he "begat" Mehujael [[Genesis 4:18]].
* `{{H4232}}` **Mᵉchûwyâʼêl** (smitten of God; Mechujael or Mechijael, an antediluvian patriarch; Mehujael): The son of Irad, who continues the lineage recorded in the same passage [[Genesis 4:18]].
* `{{H4967}}` **Mᵉthûwshâʼêl** (man who (is) of God; Methusael, an antediluvian patriarch; Methusael): The grandson of Irad and son of Mehujael, further extending the line [[Genesis 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5897}}` is purely genealogical and structural, as derived from its sole appearance.
* **Genealogical Marker:** The primary role of **Irad** is to serve as a link in the chain of humanity's early history, specifically in the line of Cain. His presence establishes the pedigree from Cain to Lamech [[Genesis 4:18]].
* **Antediluvian History:** As an antediluvian figure, **Irad** is part of the biblical record of the world before the flood, listed in one of the earliest genealogies in scripture.
* **Continuity of Lineage:** The acts of being "born" and "begetting" `{{H3205}}` connected to **Irad** are part of the fundamental biblical function of showing lineage and generational progression from the earliest chapters of Genesis.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5897}}` is the proper name **ʻÎyrâd**, an individual whose sole biblical importance is his position in the antediluvian genealogy of Cain. Appearing only in [[Genesis 4:18]], he serves as a crucial generational connector between his father, Enoch, and his son, Mehujael. The name has no further narrative development, but its inclusion is essential for the structural integrity of this early biblical record.
TRV