### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rᵉbîyʻîy**, represented by `{{H7243}}`, is an ordinal number meaning **fourth**. It can also denote a fractional amount, **a fourth**, or be used to describe something as **foursquare** or a **fourth (part)**. It appears 56 times across 54 unique verses in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H7243}}` is used to mark sequence and time. It establishes the **fourth** day of creation [[Genesis 1:19]] and frequently specifies the **fourth** month or year in historical and prophetic accounts ([[1 Kings 6:1]], [[Jeremiah 39:2]]). The term also denotes a fractional measurement in sacrificial law, such as the **fourth** part of a hin of wine for a drink offering [[Numbers 15:5]]. In genealogies, it identifies sons in the order of their birth, like Adonijah as the **fourth** son of David [[2 Samuel 3:4]]. It is also used symbolically, as in the vision of the **fourth** chariot [[Zechariah 6:3]] or the promise to Jehu of descendants on the throne to the **fourth** generation [[2 Kings 10:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for order and measurement:
* `{{H7992}}` **shᵉlîyshîy** (third): This ordinal number often precedes `{{H7243}}` in sequential lists, such as the naming of the third and **fourth** rivers from Eden [[Genesis 2:14]] or the order of sons in a genealogy [[1 Chronicles 3:2]].
* `{{H2549}}` **chămîyshîy** (fifth): Following `{{H7243}}` in sequence, this term is used to denote the **fifth** item or time period, as seen in the list of fasts for the fourth and **fifth** months [[Zechariah 8:19]].
* `{{H1969}}` **hîyn** (hin): A liquid measure frequently portioned by `{{H7243}}`. Sacrificial instructions often call for a **fourth** part of a **hin** of wine or oil [[Leviticus 23:13]].
* `{{H702}}` **ʼarbaʻ** (four): The cardinal number from which **rᵉbîyʻîy** is derived. It is used for counting, such as the **four** faces of the cherubim seen in Ezekiel's vision, where one is identified as the **fourth** face [[Ezekiel 10:14]].
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H7243}}` is evident in its various applications.
* **Divine Order:** The word is integral to the structure of creation, marking the **fourth** day when the sun, moon, and stars were made [[Genesis 1:19]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** `{{H7243}}` often functions as a key marker in God's prophetic timeline, defining when a promise or judgment will come to pass, such as the return of Israel's descendants in the **fourth** generation [[Genesis 15:16]] or the extent of Jehu's dynasty [[2 Kings 15:12]].
* **Ritual Holiness:** The term is used to prescribe specific quantities for offerings, linking the **fourth** part to acts of worship [[Numbers 28:7]]. Furthermore, the fruit of the **fourth** year was to be designated as holy to the LORD [[Leviticus 19:24]].
* **Symbolic Completeness:** In visions and construction, `{{H7243}}` denotes structure and completeness, as seen in the description of the holy oblation as **foursquare** [[Ezekiel 48:20]] and in the **fourth** face of the cherubim [[Ezekiel 10:14]].
### Summary
In summary, **rᵉbîyʻîy** `{{H7243}}` is more than a simple ordinal. It functions as a foundational element for marking time, sequence, and measure within scripture. From the **fourth** day of creation to prophetic timelines and the precise measurements for holy offerings, it underscores a world structured by divine order, purpose, and timing.
TRV