### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun riʼshâh (`{{H7221}}`) is derived from the foundational root roʼsh (`{{H7218}}`), which signifies "head," "top," "chief," or "beginning." While roʼsh encompasses a broad semantic range, riʼshâh specifically narrows the focus to the temporal or sequential aspect of "beginning." It denotes a commencement, the initial point of a process, time, or entity. As a feminine noun, it emphasizes the abstract concept of "a beginning" or "the first part." Its meaning is intrinsically linked to the idea of primacy and origin, setting the stage for what follows.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
It is important to note that while riʼshâh (`{{H7221}}`) is listed as a distinct lemma in some lexicons, it does not appear as a uniquely assigned Strong's number in the Masoretic Text according to standard concordances. Rather, its conceptual meaning of "a beginning" is predominantly expressed through its closely related and more frequently attested cognate, reʼshît (`{{H7225}}`). Reʼshît is also a feminine noun derived from roʼsh (`{{H7218}}`), and it carries the meanings of "beginning," "firstfruits," "chief," or "principal part." Therefore, while H7221 represents the abstract idea of a commencement, H7225 serves as its primary concrete manifestation in biblical literature. The absence of H7221 as a distinct occurrence underscores the linguistic fluidity and semantic overlap within this word family, where reʼshît (`{{H7225}}`) effectively encapsulates the meaning intended by riʼshâh.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field surrounding riʼshâh (`{{H7221}}`) is rich and interconnected:
* roʼsh (`{{H7218}}`): The primary root, meaning "head," "top," "chief," or "beginning." It is the source from which riʼshâh derives its core meaning.
* reʼshît (`{{H7225}}`): The most significant cognate, also a feminine noun, meaning "beginning," "firstfruits," "chief part," or "the first of anything." This word is the practical expression of the concept embodied by riʼshâh. Examples include "in the beginning" ([[Genesis 1:1]]) or "the first of your harvest" ([[Exodus 23:19]]).
* riʼshon (`{{H7223}}`), riʼshonah (`{{H7224}}`): Adjectives meaning "first," "former," or "earlier," further emphasizing the chronological or ordinal aspect of "beginning."
* Concepts: The word family evokes fundamental theological concepts such as origin, commencement, priority, foundation, and the preeminence of God and His works.
### Theological Significance
While riʼshâh (`{{H7221}}`) itself does not appear distinctly in scripture, the *concept* of "beginning" that it denotes, primarily through reʼshît (`{{H7225}}`), carries profound theological weight.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Creation:** The very first words of the Bible, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" ([[Genesis 1:1]]), employ reʼshît (`{{H7225}}`), establishing God as the ultimate Originator and Sovereign over all existence. This emphasizes that creation is not accidental but purposeful, initiated by the divine will.
2. **Primacy and Holiness:** The "beginning" often signifies that which is primary, foundational, and therefore sacred. Concepts like "firstfruits" (also reʼshît `{{H7225}}`) and "firstborn" illustrate the principle that the initial portion or offspring belongs to the Lord, symbolizing dedication and acknowledgment of His provision and authority ([[Exodus 23:19]], [[Deuteronomy 26:2]]).
3. **Covenant and Relationship:** The "beginning" of a relationship or covenant often sets its terms and trajectory. The "beginning" of wisdom is the fear of the Lord ([[Psalm 111:10]], [[Proverbs 9:10]]), indicating that a right relationship with God is the foundational principle for all true understanding and flourishing.
4. **Prophetic and Eschatological Implications:** The "beginning" can also serve as a reference point for future events, marking the start of a new era or the fulfillment of prophecy. God is not only the Alpha but also the Omega, the one who initiates and brings to completion.
### Summary
Riʼshâh (`{{H7221}}`) is a Hebrew feminine noun derived from roʼsh (`{{H7218}}`), signifying "a beginning" or "commencement." Although H7221 itself does not appear as a distinct, independently numbered occurrence in standard biblical texts, its core meaning is fully realized and widely expressed through its close cognate, reʼshît (`{{H7225}}`). This word family underscores the foundational biblical concept of "beginning" as a point of origin, primacy, and divine initiation. Theologically, it points to God as the ultimate Creator and Sustainer, the One who establishes all beginnings, demands the first and best, and provides the foundational principles for life and wisdom. The concept of "beginning" is thus central to understanding God's sovereignty, the order of creation, and the nature of humanity's relationship with the divine.
TRV