### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂrôwd**, represented by `{{H720}}`, is a proper name defined as **fugitive**. It is described as an orthographical variation of אַרְוַד and identifies a specific Israelite named Arod. This name appears **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, establishing the identity of a patriarchal head of a family.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{H720}}` occurs within a genealogical census of the tribes of Israel. Its sole use is in [[Numbers 26:17]]: "Of **Arod**{H720}, the family{H4940} of the Arodites{H722}: of Areli{H692}, the family{H4940} of the Arelites{H692}." In this context, Arod is listed as the founder of his own family line, the Arodites, cementing his place in the official record of the descendants of Israel before they entered the Promised Land.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Arod's identity and lineage:
* `{{H722}}` **ʼĂrôwdîy** (Arodi, Arodites): This term is a patronymic, meaning it denotes a descendant of Arod. The name Arodi is listed as one of the sons of Gad [[Genesis 46:16]], and the term "Arodites" is used in the census to identify his family clan [[Numbers 26:17]].
* `{{H692}}` **ʼArʼêlîy** (Areli, Arelites): This name refers to Areli, an Israelite, and his descendants. He is listed alongside Arodi as a son of Gad [[Genesis 46:16]] and his family is counted next to Arod's in the census, indicating a close, likely fraternal, relationship [[Numbers 26:17]].
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (family, kind(-red)): This word, defined as a family or tribe, provides the framework for Arod's significance. He is named not as an individual alone, but as the progenitor of a **family** [[Numbers 26:17]], which was the fundamental unit of Israelite society and inheritance.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H720}}` is primarily genealogical and structural within the biblical narrative.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** The inclusion of Arod in the census is part of the meticulous record-keeping that was essential for establishing tribal identity, inheritance rights, and social order within Israel.
* **Head of a Family:** Arod is identified as the founder of the Arodites `{{H722}}`, highlighting the biblical emphasis on the **family** `{{H4940}}` as the core building block of the nation. His name represents a distinct clan within the larger tribe of Gad.
* **Covenantal Inclusion:** By being named in the census [[Numbers 26:17]], Arod and his descendants are affirmed as members of God's covenant people, counted among the "kindreds of the people" [[Psalms 96:7]] who belong to the Lord.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H720}}` is a proper name whose importance lies in its specific function within the biblical text. While appearing only once, **ʼĂrôwd** serves as a vital genealogical marker, identifying the patriarch of the Arodite family. Its presence in the census of Numbers underscores the biblical themes of lineage, family structure, and the detailed accounting of the people of Israel as a fulfillment of God's covenant promises.
TRV