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.
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.
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.
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.
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