### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Rᵉʼûwbên**, represented by `{{H7205}}`, is the name of Jacob's first son. Its name is derived from the imperative of **râʼâh** `{{H7200}}`, meaning "to see," and **bên** `{{H1121}}`, meaning "a son," literally meaning "see ye a son." This name was given by his mother Leah because the LORD `{{H3068}}` had looked `{{H7200}}` upon her affliction `{{H6040}}` [[Genesis 29:32]]. The word appears **72 times** across **68 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily referring to the individual and the tribe descended from him.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Reuben is identified as the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` of Jacob `{{H3290}}` and Leah `{{H3812}}` [[Genesis 46:8]]. His story is marked by a significant transgression where he lay `{{H7901}}` with Bilhah `{{H1090}}`, his father's concubine `{{H6370}}` [[Genesis 35:22]]. This act resulted in the forfeiture of his **birthright** `{{H1062}}`, which was given to the sons of Joseph `{{H3130}}` [[1 Chronicles 5:1]]. Despite this, Jacob's blessing acknowledged him as "my might `{{H3581}}`, and the beginning `{{H7225}}` of my strength `{{H202}}`" [[Genesis 49:3]]. Reuben also displayed a protective nature, attempting to deliver `{{H5337}}` his brother Joseph from the others by suggesting he be cast into a pit `{{H953}}` instead of killed [[Genesis 37:21-22]]. The tribe of Reuben later settled east of the Jordan `{{H3383}}` in lands like Gilead `{{H1568}}` because they were suitable for their great multitude of cattle `{{H4735}}` [[Numbers 32:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding Reuben's identity and narrative:
* `{{H1060}}` **bᵉkôwr** (firstborn): This word defines Reuben's initial status as Jacob's eldest son ([[Genesis 46:8]], [[1 Chronicles 5:1]]).
* `{{H1062}}` **bᵉkôwrâh** (birthright): This term is central to the consequences of Reuben's sin, signifying the primogeniture that was given to the sons of Joseph [[1 Chronicles 5:1]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): As a component of his name, this word highlights his identity as a son, given because the LORD had looked upon his mother's affliction [[Genesis 29:32]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This term is crucial for understanding the context of Reuben's transgression, as he defiled his **father's** bed [[Genesis 35:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of Reuben's story is significant. It explores themes of sin, consequence, and preservation.
* **Forfeited Primacy:** Reuben's story is a key biblical example of a **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` losing his preeminent status. Because he defiled `{{H2490}}` his father's bed, his **birthright** `{{H1062}}` was given to the sons of Joseph [[1 Chronicles 5:1]].
* **Consequences of Sin:** The transgression had lasting impact. Some of Reuben's descendants, Dathan `{{H1885}}` and Abiram `{{H48}}`, participated in a rebellion against Moses and were swallowed up `{{H1104}}` by the earth [[Deuteronomy 11:6]]. In the song of Deborah, the tribe's inaction led to "great searchings of heart" [[Judges 5:16]].
* **Divine Preservation:** Despite his fall and the tribe's later shortcomings, a blessing of preservation was pronounced by Moses: "Let Reuben **live** `{{H2421}}`, and not **die** `{{H4191}}`; and let not his men be few" [[Deuteronomy 33:6]]. This demonstrates a theme of mercy coexisting with judgment.
### Summary
In summary, **Rᵉʼûwbên** `{{H7205}}` is more than just the name of Jacob's first son. It embodies the narrative of forfeited blessing, as Reuben the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` lost his **birthright** `{{H1062}}` through a grievous sin [[1 Chronicles 5:1]]. His story serves as a complex biblical illustration of human failure, the generational consequences of transgression, and the enduring possibility of preservation through divine mercy [[Deuteronomy 33:6]].
TRV