The Hebrew name Rîybay, represented by H7380, is defined as contentious. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The name identifies a specific Israelite, Ribai, mentioned only in the context of his son.
In the biblical narrative, H7380 is mentioned exclusively to establish the lineage of one of King David's mighty men. He is identified as the father of Ithai (also spelled Ittai), a warrior from "Gibeah of the children of Benjamin" 2 Samuel 23:29. Both occurrences of his name serve the same purpose: to provide the paternal and geographical origin for his son, anchoring his identity within the list of David's elite soldiers 1 Chronicles 11:31.
Several related words provide context for Ribai's identity and location:
- H863 ʼIttay (near; Ittai or Ithai, the name of a Gittite and of an Israelite; Ithai, Ittai): This is the name of Ribai's son, whose identity as one of David's mighty men is established through his father 2 Samuel 23:29.
- H1121 bên (a son): This crucial term links Ribai to his son Ithai, appearing in both verses where Ribai is mentioned to denote their relationship 1 Chronicles 11:31.
- H1390 Gibʻâh (Gibah; the name of three places in Palestine; Gibeah, the hill): This is the hometown of Ribai, situating his family within a specific location associated with the tribe of Benjamin 2 Samuel 23:29.
- H1144 Binyâmîyn (son of (the) right hand; Binjamin...; Benjamin): This identifies Ribai's tribal affiliation, as he is from "Gibeah of the children of Benjamin" 1 Chronicles 11:31.
The narrative significance of H7380 is entirely contextual, providing depth to the historical record of David's followers.
- Paternal Identification: Ribai's primary role in the text is to provide the paternal identity for his son, Ithai. This genealogical reference was a common way to validate a person's background and standing in ancient Israel 2 Samuel 23:29.
- Geographic and Tribal Context: By naming Ribai of Gibeah, the text anchors one of David's warriors to a specific place and tribe, namely Benjamin. This adds historical and social detail to the list of mighty men 1 Chronicles 11:31.
- Root Meaning: The name itself is derived from a root meaning "contentious." While the scriptures do not describe Ribai's character, his name carries this inherent definition.
In summary, H7380 identifies Ribai, a man whose significance is tied directly to his son, Ithai. Though he appears only twice in lists of David's mighty men, his name serves the vital function of establishing his son's lineage, tribal identity, and hometown. Ribai is an example of how minor figures in scripture provide essential context for understanding the relationships and origins of more prominent individuals.
TRV