### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râkash**, represented by `{{H7408}}`, is a primitive root meaning to lay up, collect, gather, or get. It is a specific term, appearing only **5 times** across **4 unique verses**, primarily in the context of accumulating wealth and possessions.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7408}}` is used exclusively within the book of Genesis to describe the actions of the patriarchs. It signifies the gathering of movable assets prior to a major journey. Abram "gathered" substance before leaving Haran for Canaan [[Genesis 12:5]]. Jacob "had gotten" goods and cattle in Padanaram before returning to his father Isaac [[Genesis 31:18]]. Similarly, Esau "had got" his substance in Canaan before moving away from Jacob [[Genesis 36:6]], and Jacob's family gathered their goods before their migration to Egypt [[Genesis 46:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the action and its results:
* `{{H7399}}` **rᵉkûwsh** (property (as gathered); good, riches, substance): This noun, derived from `{{H7408}}`, describes the actual property being gathered. It is frequently the direct object of the verb, as seen with the "goods" Jacob's family brought to Egypt [[Genesis 46:6]].
* `{{H3947}}` **lâqach** (to take): This verb often appears alongside `{{H7408}}` to describe the next step in the process. The patriarchs would first gather their possessions and then "take" them, along with their families, to a new location ([[Genesis 12:5]], [[Genesis 36:6]]).
* `{{H5090}}` **nâhag** (to drive forth, lead, carry away): This word is used to describe Jacob's departure from Padanaram, where he "carried away" all the goods and cattle which he "had gotten" `{{H7408}}`, emphasizing the transportation of the accumulated wealth [[Genesis 31:18]].
* `{{H7075}}` **qinyân** (acquisition, purchase, wealth): This term is used to describe the substance gathered, such as "the cattle of his getting" [[Genesis 31:18]] or the "substance" Esau had acquired [[Genesis 36:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H7408}}` is rooted in the practical and narrative context of the patriarchal era.
* **Patriarchal Prosperity:** The verb highlights the accumulation of wealth as a key component of the patriarchs' stories. The ability to gather goods, cattle, and substance demonstrates their success and the resources required to establish their large households.
* **Preparation for Migration:** In every occurrence, the act of "gathering" immediately precedes a significant move. This links the accumulation of resources directly to the theme of sojourning and transition that defines the lives of Abram, Jacob, and Esau.
* **Movable Wealth:** The word is consistently associated with portable assets like "goods" `{{H7399}}` and cattle, reflecting the semi-nomadic lifestyle of the patriarchs. The wealth they "gather" is the wealth they can take with them.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7408}}` is a focused and descriptive term used in Genesis to denote the collection of material possessions. While not a deeply theological word in itself, its usage is critical to the narrative, signifying the prosperity of the patriarchs and the practical means by which they undertook their foundational journeys. It illustrates the gathering of resources necessary to move a family and household from one stage of their history to the next.
TRV