### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Rᵉʼâyâh**, represented by `{{H7211}}`, is derived from רָאָה and יָהּ and means **Jah has seen**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used exclusively as a proper name for individuals, with the base definition noting it as the name of three Israelites.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7211}}` is consistently used within genealogical records to establish lineage and family identity. In 1 Chronicles, it identifies individuals in the line of descent, such as **Reaiah** the son of Shobal who begat Jahath [[1 Chronicles 4:2]], and **Reaia** the son of Micah [[1 Chronicles 5:5]]. The name also appears in the lists of families who returned from the Babylonian exile, cataloged as "the children of **Reaiah**" in both Ezra [[Ezra 2:47]] and Nehemiah [[Nehemiah 7:50]], underscoring its role in preserving community records.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which **Rᵉʼâyâh** appears:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is integral to the genealogical context of `{{H7211}}`, appearing in all four verses to establish a direct father-son relationship or to identify a family group as "the children of Reaiah" [[Ezra 2:47]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget): This primitive root is used to describe the act of procreation within the lineage of **Reaiah**, as seen in the statement that he "begat Jahath" [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
* `{{H3189}}` **Yachath** (unity): This is the name of the son whom **Reaiah** begat, demonstrating the specific familial connection recorded in the genealogies [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
* `{{H4318}}` **Mîykâh** (Micah): This is the name of the father of **Reaia** in the genealogy listed in 1 Chronicles, further cementing the role of `{{H7211}}` within a specific ancestral line [[1 Chronicles 5:5]].
### Theological Significance
While not a theological term itself, the name `{{H7211}}` and its usage carry narrative significance.
* **Theophoric Naming:** The meaning of **Rᵉʼâyâh**, "Jah has seen," is a statement of faith, reflecting a belief in God's watchfulness and presence. Using such names was a common way to express personal or communal theology.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** Its presence in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles is crucial for tracing the lines of descent, particularly within the tribe of Judah [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
* **Community Restoration:** The inclusion of "the children of **Reaiah**" in the lists of those who returned from exile highlights the importance of family identity in the re-establishment of the nation ([[Ezra 2:47]], [[Nehemiah 7:50]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7211}}` **Rᵉʼâyâh** serves a specific and important function as a proper name within biblical genealogies. Its meaning, "Jah has seen," infuses a statement of faith into the biblical record. Found exclusively in lists that define family and tribal identity, the name underscores the value placed on lineage and heritage in the chronicles of Israel and the restoration of the post-exilic community.
TRV