### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ribbêaʻ**, represented by `{{H7256}}`, denotes a descendant of the **fourth** generation, or a great-great-grandchild. It appears a total of **4 times** in **4 unique verses** of the Bible. Its meaning is derived from the concept of being fourth in a line of descent.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H7256}}` appears exclusively within a solemn declaration about God's character and His response to sin. It is always paired with "third" `{{H8029}}` to describe the extent of generational consequences. This phrase is used in the context of God "visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children" [[Exodus 20:5]]. This divine warning is found in the Ten Commandments as a deterrent against idolatry [[Deuteronomy 5:9]] and is also repeated when God describes Himself as merciful and forgiving, yet one who will not clear the guilty ([[Exodus 34:7]]; [[Numbers 14:18]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context in which `{{H7256}}` is used:
* `{{H8029}}` **shillêsh** (a descendant of the third degree, i.e. great grandchild; third (generation)): This word is the direct counterpart to `{{H7256}}` and always precedes it in the phrase "unto the third and fourth generation," establishing a fixed timeline for generational consequence [[Exodus 20:5]].
* `{{H5771}}` **ʻâvôn** (perversity, i.e. (moral) evil; fault, iniquity, mischeif, punishment (of iniquity), sin): This is the specific moral evil of the fathers that is "visited" upon subsequent generations. The declaration balances God's forgiveness of **iniquity** with the consequences of it [[Exodus 34:7]].
* `{{H6485}}` **pâqad** (to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc.): This is the action God takes. In this context, it describes God's judicial oversight and calling to account, which extends through the generations [[Numbers 14:18]].
* `{{H7067}}` **qannâʼ** (jealous; jealous): This term describes God's nature in the passages that forbid idolatry. The visitation of iniquity to the fourth generation is presented as a direct result of serving other gods before a **jealous** God [[Deuteronomy 5:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7256}}` is significant, contributing to a complex understanding of divine justice and mercy.
* **Generational Consequences of Sin:** The term is used exclusively to define the temporal reach of punishment for the **iniquity** `{{H5771}}` of fathers, specifically in the context of idolatry, which affects those who **hate** `{{H8130}}` God [[Exodus 20:5]].
* **The Justice of a Jealous God:** The warning is rooted in God's character as a **jealous** `{{H7067}}` God. The act of bowing down `{{H7812}}` to or serving `{{H5647}}` idols provokes this specific judicial response across generations [[Deuteronomy 5:9]].
* **The Superiority of Mercy:** The declaration of judgment to the fourth generation is often presented alongside the proclamation of God's immense **mercy** `{{H2617}}`. While iniquity is visited for four generations, God keeps mercy "for thousands," showing that His grace far outweighs His judgment [[Exodus 34:7]].
* **Individual Accountability:** The principle of generational consequence is balanced by the theme of individual responsibility. Scripture also affirms that a **son** `{{H1121}}` will not ultimately **bear** `{{H5375}}` the **iniquity** `{{H5771}}` of the **father** `{{H1}}`, emphasizing that personal sin leads to personal judgment [[Ezekiel 18:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7256}}` is more than a generational marker; it is a key component in a theological statement about God's justice. It defines the boundaries of consequence for covenant-breaking sin, particularly idolatry. Always appearing with "third" `{{H8029}}`, it serves as a stark warning but must be understood within the broader biblical revelation of God's overwhelming mercy and the principle of individual accountability before Him.
TRV