or רִאשֹׁן; from רִאשָׁה; first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun); ancestor, (that were) before(-time), beginning, eldest, first, fore(-father) (-most), former (thing), of old time, past.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **riʼshôwn**, represented by `{{H7223}}`, is a key term signifying that which is **first**. It appears 185 times across 174 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning extends beyond simple sequence to encompass concepts of place, time, or rank, and it can refer to an ancestor, a beginning, or a former thing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narrative, `{{H7223}}` is used in several distinct ways. It establishes temporal order, as seen in phrases like "the **first** day" of the month ([[Exodus 12:15]], [[Daniel 10:12]]). It denotes rank and primacy, such as God's declaration, "I am the **first**, and I am the last" [[Isaiah 44:6]], and Michael being called one of the "**chief** princes" [[Daniel 10:13]]. The term is frequently used to contrast past events with future ones, referring to "**former things**" that have passed away to make room for God's new work ([[Isaiah 43:18]], [[Isaiah 65:17]]). It also establishes lineage by referring to "**ancestors**" or a "**first** father" ([[Leviticus 26:45]], [[Isaiah 43:27]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for understanding primacy and sequence:
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (beginning, chief, head): As the root from which `{{H7223}}` is derived, this word signifies the ultimate head or starting point. It is used to describe God's exalted position as **head** above all [[1 Chronicles 29:11]].
* `{{H314}}` **ʼachărôwn** (hinder, late or last): This term serves as the direct counterpart to `{{H7223}}`, often appearing in parallel to create a sense of totality. This is seen in God's declaration of being the **first** and the **last** [[Isaiah 41:4]].
* `{{H2319}}` **châdâsh** (new; fresh, new thing): This word is often set in contrast to `{{H7223}}`. God declares that the "**former things** are come to pass, and **new things** do I declare" [[Isaiah 42:9]].
* `{{H8462}}` **tᵉchillâh** (a commencement; rel. original): This term is used alongside `{{H7223}}` to emphasize a complete restoration to an original state, promising to restore judges "as at the **first**" and counselors "as at the **beginning**" [[Isaiah 1:26]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7223}}` is significant, framing concepts of God's nature and His work in history.
* **Divine Eternality:** God's self-identification as "the **first**" is a declaration of His sovereignty and eternal existence, preceding all of creation and having no beginning ([[Isaiah 44:6]], [[Isaiah 48:12]]).
* **Prophetic Certainty:** The concept of "**former things**" is used to validate God's prophetic word. By declaring events from the beginning and bringing them to pass, God proves His power and foreknowledge ([[Isaiah 48:3]], [[Isaiah 43:9]]).
* **Historical and Covenantal Continuity:** The word links present generations to their "**forefathers**," establishing a pattern of generational accountability and covenant memory. Israel is called to remember the covenant made with their **ancestors** [[Leviticus 26:45]] but also warned against turning back to their iniquities [[Jeremiah 11:10]].
* **Promise of Restoration:** God promises to restore His people and their land "as at the **first**," signifying a return to an ideal state of blessing and right relationship with Him ([[Jeremiah 33:7]], [[Jeremiah 33:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7223}}` is far more than a simple descriptor of order. It is a cornerstone concept used to define God's eternal nature, structure prophetic promises, and frame the relationship between past, present, and future. From marking the "**first** month" of the sacred calendar to declaring God as the "**first**" over all existence, this word provides a vital framework for understanding time, rank, and redemption throughout Scripture.
TRV