The Hebrew word Rôʼêh, represented by H7204, is used to identify an Israelite named Haroeh. It appears only 1 time in 1 verse in the entire Bible. The word itself is a proper name, with the "Ha" in its biblical usage representing the definite article ("the"), as noted in its base definition.
The sole appearance of H7204 is within a genealogical record in the book of Chronicles. In this passage, Haroeh is listed as one of the sons of Shobal, who is identified as the "father of Kirjathjearim" 1 Chronicles 2:52. This places Haroeh specifically within the lineage of Shobal, documenting his position in the family line.
The context of H7204 connects it to several other key genealogical terms:
- H7732 Shôwbâl (Shobal, the name of an Edomite and two Israelites): He is explicitly named as the father of the group that includes Haroeh 1 Chronicles 2:52. Shobal is a descendant of Judah 1 Chronicles 4:1.
- H1 ʼâb (father): This term is used to establish Shobal's patriarchal role as the "father of Kirjathjearim," signifying his leadership or founding of that community 1 Chronicles 2:52.
- H1121 bên (a son): Haroeh is identified as one of the "sons" of Shobal, defining his direct genealogical relationship 1 Chronicles 2:52.
- H2679 Chătsîy ham-Mᵉnuchôwth (half of the Manahethites): This term refers to a people group listed alongside Haroeh as descendants of Shobal, illustrating how individuals and families are cataloged together 1 Chronicles 2:52.
The significance of H7204 is purely genealogical, helping to establish a specific lineage within the tribe of Judah.
- Documenting Lineage: The primary purpose of mentioning Haroeh is to preserve the detailed family records of Israel. He is recorded as a son of Shobal 1 Chronicles 2:52, who is a descendant of Judah 1 Chronicles 4:1.
- Progenitor of a Family: In the list, "Haroeh" is named in parallel with "half of the Manahethites" 1 Chronicles 2:52. This structure suggests that Haroeh, like the Manahethites, is the head or progenitor of a distinct family clan descended from Shobal.
- Connection to Place: Haroeh's father, Shobal, is described as the "father of Kirjathjearim," a significant town in Judah 1 Chronicles 2:52. This links Haroeh's family line to a specific geographic and political entity within Israel.
In summary, H7204 is not a common word with theological depth but the proper name Haroeh. Its singular mention in scripture serves the important function of genealogical record-keeping. Found in 1 Chronicles, it precisely identifies an individual within the lineage of Shobal, contributing to the comprehensive family history of the tribe of Judah and illustrating the Bible's meticulous attention to ancestry.
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