### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râbîyd**, represented by `{{H7242}}`, refers to a **chain** or collar. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The definition, "a collar (as spread around the neck); chain," suggests an item of adornment or a symbol of status bestowed upon an individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7242}}` is used to signify honor and adornment in contexts of significant elevation. In one instance, Pharaoh{H6547} bestows a gold{H2091} **chain** upon Joseph's{H3130} neck{H6677} as part of his appointment to a place of great authority, along with a ring{H2885} and vestures{H899} of fine linen{H8336} [[Genesis 41:42]]. In another context, the word is used metaphorically by God to describe how He decked{H5710} Jerusalem with ornaments{H5716}, putting{H5414} a **chain** on her neck as a sign of favor and beauty [[Ezekiel 16:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of the **chain**:
* `{{H2091}}` **zâhâb** (gold, figuratively, something gold-colored): The chain given to Joseph is explicitly a **gold** chain, linking this precious metal directly to the high honor signified by the ornament [[Genesis 41:42]].
* `{{H6677}}` **tsavvâʼr** (the back of the neck): This word specifies the location where the **chain** is placed, emphasizing its visibility as a mark of honor around the neck{H6677} [[Genesis 41:42]].
* `{{H5716}}` **ʻădîy** (finery; generally an outfit; specifically, a headstall; ornament): This term categorizes the **chain** as a type of **ornament**. In Ezekiel, God uses it to describe His beautification of Jerusalem, which included the **chain** [[Ezekiel 16:11]].
* `{{H6781}}` **tsâmîyd** (a bracelet or arm-clasp): Mentioned alongside the **chain** in Ezekiel's prophecy, **bracelets** are another form of adornment used to signify God's favor and blessing upon Jerusalem [[Ezekiel 16:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7242}}` is seen in its symbolic representation of conferred dignity and favor.
* **Symbol of Honor and Authority:** The **chain** is not merely decorative; it is a powerful symbol of elevated status. Pharaoh bestows it upon Joseph to publicly mark his appointment as second-in-command over Egypt [[Genesis 41:42]].
* **Metaphor for Divine Favor:** God uses the image of putting a **chain** on Jerusalem's neck to illustrate His lavish blessing and the beauty He bestowed upon His chosen people, transforming them from a state of being naked and bare [[Ezekiel 16:11]].
* **Sign of Bestowed Value:** The **chain** is consistently associated with being given{H5414} by a higher authority (Pharaoh, God) to a recipient. This act of giving signifies that the recipient's value and position are conferred upon them ([[Genesis 41:42]], [[Ezekiel 16:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7242}}` **râbîyd**, while rare in scripture, carries significant weight in its two appearances. It functions as a clear and visible symbol of high honor and conferred authority. Whether given by a king like Pharaoh to elevate a faithful servant or used by God to describe His own gracious adornment of His people, the **chain** signifies a public declaration of a new, honored status.
TRV