the same as רַחַם; pity; Racham, an Israelite; Raham.
Transliteration:Racham
Pronunciation:rakh'-am
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7357}}` (Racham) functions primarily as a proper noun in the biblical text. Its base definition indicates it is "the same as `{{H7356}}`," which refers to the "womb" and, by extension, "compassion" or "pity." Thus, the name "Raham" inherently carries the semantic weight of deep, tender affection, mercy, or compassion. This etymological root, shared with `{{H7355}}` (racham, "to have compassion"), points to a visceral, profound sense of empathy, often likened to a mother's love for her child, originating from the "womb" as the seat of life and nurturing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun `{{H7357}}` (Racham) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically within a genealogical record:
* **[[1 Chronicles 2:44]]**: "And Shema begot Raham, the father of Jorkoam; and Rekem begot Shammai."
In this sole occurrence, Raham is identified as a descendant of Judah, through the line of Caleb, son of Hezron. He is presented as an ancestor in a lineage, with no further narrative details or actions attributed to him. His significance in this context is purely as a link in the tribal genealogy, preserving the family line. The inclusion of his name, imbued with the meaning of "compassion," might reflect the aspirations or values of the parents who bestowed it, perhaps hoping for a child who would embody such a quality, or commemorating a compassionate act. However, the text itself provides no explicit commentary on the individual named Raham beyond his familial connection.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and significant relation of `{{H7357}}` (Racham) is to its root words:
* **`{{H7356}}` (rechem)**: The noun meaning "womb," which is also used to denote "compassion" or "mercy." This connection emphasizes the profound, innate, and often maternal nature of this type of pity.
* **`{{H7355}}` (racham)**: The verb "to have compassion," "to show mercy," or "to feel pity." This verb is frequently used to describe God's merciful character.
These related terms are central to the biblical understanding of divine attributes. The concept of "rachamim" (plural of rechem) is often used to describe God's tender mercies and deep compassion. This is frequently paired with other terms for divine kindness and faithfulness, such as:
* **`{{H2617}}` (chesed)**: Steadfast love, covenant loyalty, kindness. While "racham" emphasizes tender, visceral pity, "chesed" speaks to enduring, loyal love within a relationship.
* **`{{H5503}}` (chanan)**: To be gracious, to show favor, often implying an unmerited act of kindness.
Together, these words paint a rich picture of God's benevolent character and His dealings with humanity.
### Theological Significance
While the proper name Raham (`{{H7357}}`) itself holds limited direct theological significance due to its singular, non-narrative occurrence, its etymological root is profoundly important for understanding biblical theology. The name serves as a subtle, perhaps even unconscious, echo of one of God's most defining attributes: His compassion.
God is frequently described as "rachum" (compassionate) and "chanun" (gracious) (e.g., [[Exodus 34:6]], [[Psalm 103:8]], [[Joel 2:13]]). The imagery of the "womb" (rechem) underscores the depth and tenderness of God's mercy, likening it to the profound and unwavering love of a mother for her child, a love that transcends circumstances (e.g., [[Isaiah 49:15]]). This divine compassion is not merely an emotion but an active disposition that leads to acts of deliverance, forgiveness, and restoration for His people. The presence of a name like "Raham" in the sacred genealogy, even without further elaboration, subtly underscores the value and recognition of this foundational divine quality within the covenant community.
### Summary
The Hebrew term `{{H7357}}` (Racham) is a proper noun, appearing once in [[1 Chronicles 2:44]] as an individual in the lineage of Judah. Its primary significance lies in its etymological connection to the root `{{H7355}}`/`{{H7356}}`, meaning "womb" and, by extension, "compassion" or "pity." While the biblical text provides no narrative details about the individual Raham, his name serves as a linguistic echo of the profound biblical concept of divine mercy (rachamim). This concept describes God's deep, tender, and often maternal compassion for His creation, a cornerstone of His character and redemptive acts throughout Scripture.
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