### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Rᵉchûwm**, represented by `{{H7348}}`, is a proper noun identified in scripture as **Rehum**. It appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses**. The base definition indicates it is the name of a Persian and of three Israelites. The individuals named **Rehum** are found primarily in the narratives of Ezra and Nehemiah, placing them within the context of the post-exilic period.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H7348}}` is associated with several distinct individuals in the Old Testament. The most prominent is **Rehum** the chancellor, a Persian official who, with Shimshai the scribe, wrote a letter to King Artaxerxes to halt the rebuilding of Jerusalem [[Ezra 4:8]]. This action prompted a royal decree, which **Rehum** and his companions enforced by force and power [[Ezra 4:23]]. Other individuals named **Rehum** include an Israelite who returned with Zerubbabel [[Ezra 2:2]], a Levite and son of Bani who repaired the wall of Jerusalem [[Nehemiah 3:17]], one who sealed the covenant [[Nehemiah 10:25]], and one listed among those who returned with Zerubbabel [[Nehemiah 12:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Aramaic words are closely associated with the activities of **Rehum** the chancellor:
* `{{H1169}}` **bᵉʻêl**: Defined as a master or husband, it is used in the phrase for **chancellor** ([[Ezra 4:8]], [[Ezra 4:9]], [[Ezra 4:17]]). This title signifies his position of authority within the Persian administration.
* `{{H2942}}` **ṭᵉʻêm**: This word means flavor or judgment and is also part of the phrase for **chancellor**, but is also used for a **decree** or **command** ([[Ezra 4:8]], [[Ezra 4:9]], [[Ezra 4:17]]). It highlights his role in executing royal orders.
* `{{H3675}}` **kᵉnâth**: Meaning a **colleague** or **companion**, this word identifies those who worked alongside Rehum in his opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem ([[Ezra 4:9]], [[Ezra 4:17]], [[Ezra 4:23]]).
* `{{H5613}}` **çâphêr**: This word for **scribe** identifies Rehum's key associate, Shimshai, who co-authored the letter against Jerusalem ([[Ezra 4:8]], [[Ezra 4:9]]).
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H7348}}` is primarily understood through the contrasting roles of the men who bear this name.
* **Symbol of Opposition:** **Rehum** the chancellor serves as a primary antagonist in the book of Ezra. His official letter and subsequent actions represent the political and external forces that actively opposed the restoration of Jerusalem and the temple, creating a significant obstacle for the Jews ([[Ezra 4:8]], [[Ezra 4:23]]).
* **Participant in Restoration:** In contrast, the Israelites named **Rehum** embody faithfulness and participation in God's plan. They are listed among the first returnees from exile [[Ezra 2:2]], as active builders of the city wall [[Nehemiah 3:17]], and as those who solemnly committed to the covenant, signifying their dedication to rebuilding the nation of Israel [[Nehemiah 10:25]].
### Summary
In summary, **Rehum** `{{H7348}}` is not a symbolic term but the proper name of several historical figures whose actions are pivotal to the post-exilic narrative. The name is most famously attached to a Persian chancellor who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem, yet it is also borne by faithful Israelites—a Levite, a priest, and a covenant-maker—who dedicated themselves to the city's restoration. The use of this single name for figures on opposite sides of the conflict highlights the internal and external struggles faced by Israel during this critical period of its history.
TRV