### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **riʼshônîy**, represented by `{{H7224}}`, provides a specific designation for **first**. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, highlighting its use in a very precise historical context. Its meaning is directly tied to identifying the beginning of a specific period or reign.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H7224}}` is used to establish a critical chronological marker. A divine word{H1697} came to the prophet Jeremiah{H3414} during the fourth{H7243} year{H8141} of the reign of Jehoiakim{H3079}, king{H4428} of Judah{H3063}. The text clarifies this specific time by noting it was also the **first**{H7224} year{H8141} of Nebuchadrezzar{H5019}, king{H4428} of Babylon{H894} [[Jeremiah 25:1]]. This usage synchronizes the timeline of Judah with the ascendant Babylonian empire, providing an anchor for the prophetic message.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the historical moment marked by `{{H7224}}`:
* `{{H8141}}` **shâneh** (a year): This term for a revolution of time is directly modified by `{{H7224}}` to specify the "**year**" in question. Its use is foundational for marking time in scripture [[Jeremiah 25:1]].
* `{{H7243}}` **rᵉbîyʻîy** (fourth): Used in the same verse to describe the "**fourth** year" of Jehoiakim's reign, this word provides the corresponding Judean timeline, highlighting the historical pivot point being described [[Jeremiah 25:1]].
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): The concept of a "first year" is tied to the reign of a **king**. This word is used for both the king of Judah and the king of Babylon, defining the domains of power whose timelines are being aligned [[Jeremiah 25:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7224}}` is found in the context it establishes.
* **Prophetic Precision:** The use of `{{H7224}}` to mark the **first** year of Nebuchadrezzar's reign anchors a major prophecy from the LORD to a specific, verifiable historical moment. It demonstrates that God's communication is not abstract but intersects deliberately with human history [[Jeremiah 25:1]].
* **Divine Sovereignty:** By synchronizing the reigns of the king of Judah and the king of Babylon, the passage shows God's sovereign control over the timelines of all nations. The start of Nebuchadrezzar's reign is a key event in God's plan, as he is identified elsewhere as the LORD's servant [[Jeremiah 25:9]].
* **Chronological Marker for God's Plan:** The term pinpoints the beginning of a new phase in God's dealings with Judah. This **first** year initiates a period where God's purposes, as spoken through Jeremiah{H3414}, would unfold through the actions of the king{H4428} of Babylon{H894} [[Jeremiah 25:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **riʼshônîy** `{{H7224}}` is a word whose significance is derived entirely from its specific context. While simply meaning **first**, its sole usage in scripture serves as a critical pin, fastening a divine prophecy to a moment of major geopolitical shift. It illustrates how even a simple chronological term can carry immense theological weight, marking the intersection of God's sovereign plan with the reigns of earthly kings and the fate of nations.
TRV