The Hebrew name Regem Melek, represented by H7278, translates to king's heap. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, identifying an Israelite who was part of a specific delegation during the time of the prophet Zechariah.
The single biblical reference to H7278 is found in Zechariah 7:2. In this passage, Regemmelech is named alongside Sherezer as part of a group that was sent H7971 to the house of God (H1004, H410). The purpose of their mission was explicitly stated: "to pray H2470 before the LORD H3068." The context frames Regemmelech as an individual involved in an official act of seeking God's guidance and favor.
Several related words from the immediate context illuminate the narrative:
- H8272 Sharʼetser (Sharetser): The name of the individual sent alongside Regemmelech. This name also appears in reference to a son of an Assyrian king 2 Kings 19:37.
- H7971 shâlach (to send away, for, or out): This word describes the action of dispatching the delegation. This same term is used to describe God sending His word to bring healing and deliverance Psalms 107:20.
- H1004 bayith (a house): The destination of the delegation was the "house of God," a central place of worship. The significance of God's house is a recurring theme, as seen in Joshua's declaration, "as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" Joshua 24:15.
- H2470 châlâh (to entreat; beseech): This verb defines the purpose of their journey—to make prayer or supplication. It can also mean to be weak or sick, as when King Hezekiah was sick unto death and prayed to God Isaiah 38:1.
While the name itself does not carry extensive theological weight, the action associated with Regemmelech is significant.
- Corporate Inquiry: Regemmelech was not acting alone but was part of an official delegation with Sherezer and "their men" H582. This emphasizes the importance of communities coming together to seek the Lord Zechariah 7:2.
- Seeking God's Presence: The journey to the "house of God" H410 to pray "before the LORD" H6440 shows a deliberate effort to approach God in the place and manner He had established for worship and communion.
- The Act of Supplication: The mission's core was to pray H2470, demonstrating that seeking divine guidance through prayer was a foundational practice for the people of Israel when facing questions of religious observance.
In summary, H7278 is the proper name Regem Melek, an individual mentioned a single time in Scripture. His significance is tied entirely to his role in the narrative of Zechariah 7:2, where he participates in a formal delegation sent to the house of God. The account highlights the importance of corporate prayer and the practice of formally seeking the will of the LORD.
TRV