### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Racham**, represented by `{{H7357}}`, identifies a specific Israelite individual. According to its usage statistics, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text. Its sole appearance is within a genealogical list, where it serves to mark a link in a paternal line.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical mention of `{{H7357}}` is found in a detailed lineage record in 1 Chronicles. The verse states, "And Shema begat **Raham**, the father of Jorkoam" [[1 Chronicles 2:44]]. In this context, **Racham** is established as the son of Shema and the father of Jorkoam. The name's function is strictly to identify this person and place him precisely within the ancestral line being documented.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context help define the role of **Racham**:
* `{{H8087}}` **Shemaʻ**: The father of **Racham**. The name **Shema** identifies an Israelite and appears in the same lineage as a son of Hebron [[1 Chronicles 2:43]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad**: This is the verb translated as "begat," meaning "to beget" or "to show lineage" [[1 Chronicles 2:44]]. It is the action that establishes the direct father-son relationship between Shema and **Racham**.
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb**: Translated as **father**, this word defines the role of **Racham** in relation to his son, Jorkoam [[1 Chronicles 2:44]]. It signifies his place as a literal head of his direct family line.
* `{{H7552}}` **Reqem**: Mentioned in the same verse, **Rekem** is another Israelite name in a parallel lineage who "begat Shammai" [[1 Chronicles 2:44]].
### Theological Significance
While the name **Racham** does not carry broad theological weight on its own, its inclusion in scripture is significant for several reasons:
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The primary function of `{{H7357}}` is to serve as a marker in the official genealogies recorded in 1 Chronicles. Its presence underscores the importance of maintaining a detailed and accurate record of Israel's tribal and family lines.
* **Continuity of Lineage:** **Racham** acts as a crucial link connecting one generation to the next. He is identified as both a son and a **father**, highlighting the continuity of family and heritage [[1 Chronicles 2:44]].
* **Role in Sacred History:** By being named in the biblical text, **Racham** is affirmed as part of the historical fabric of the Israelite people. Each name in these lists contributes to the complete picture of the nation's identity as recorded in scripture.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7357}}` **Racham** is a proper name with a single, specific function in the Bible. It appears once to identify an individual within a genealogy in 1 Chronicles. While not a word with deep semantic meaning, its value lies in its structural role, contributing to the meticulous preservation of lineage that is central to the biblical narrative of Israel's history and identity.
TRV