### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7441}}` (Rinnâh) is primarily a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates it is "the same as רִנָּה," directly linking it to the common noun `{{H7440}}` (rinnâh), which signifies "a ringing cry," "shout of joy," "triumph," or "jubilation." Thus, the name Rinnah carries the inherent meaning of "shout of joy" or "cry of jubilation." Unlike common nouns with a broad semantic range, a proper noun's meaning is fixed by its etymological root and its function as an identifier. In this case, the name itself embodies a concept of exultation and joyous acclamation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Rinnah (`{{H7441}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the genealogies of the book of Chronicles:
* **[[1 Chronicles 4:20]]**: "And the sons of Shimon: Amnon, and Rinnah, and Ben-hanan, and Tilon. And the sons of Ishi: Zoheth, and Ben-zoheth."
This verse lists Rinnah as one of the sons of Shimon, who is himself a descendant of Judah through the line of Caleb, son of Hur. The context is purely genealogical, embedding Rinnah within the intricate lineage of the tribe of Judah. These genealogies in Chronicles serve multiple purposes: to establish tribal identity, to preserve the memory of families, to demonstrate the continuity of God's covenant people, and to trace the lineage leading to the Davidic monarchy. While Rinnah himself is not a figure of narrative importance, his inclusion signifies his place within the divinely preserved family lines. The brevity of his mention underscores the chronicler's focus on lineage over individual biography for many figures within these lists.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H7441}}` is its direct cognate, the common noun `{{H7440}}` (rinnâh), meaning "shout of joy" or "cry of triumph." This root is also connected to the verb `{{H7442}}` (ranan), "to shout for joy," "to sing aloud," or "to give a ringing cry."
Concepts related to Rinnah, stemming from its etymological root, include:
* **Joy (שִׂמְחָה, `{{H8057}}`):** The broader theme of joy, gladness, and rejoicing is central to biblical worship and experience. Rinnah's name resonates with the deep-seated biblical emphasis on joy as a fruit of God's presence and salvation.
* **Praise (הַלֵּל, `{{H1984}}`; תְּהִלָּה, `{{H8416}}`):** The "shout of joy" often accompanies acts of praise and worship directed towards God. The name Rinnah evokes the vocal expression of adoration.
* **Singing/Lamenting:** The root ranan (`{{H7442}}`) can also be used for a lament, but its primary association, and certainly that of `{{H7440}}` and thus `{{H7441}}`, is with joyful acclamation. This highlights the spectrum of human emotion expressed vocally in the biblical world.
The name Rinnah, therefore, connects this individual, however briefly mentioned, to a rich tapestry of biblical expressions of joy, praise, and exultation before God.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Rinnah (`{{H7441}}`) is primarily derived from its inclusion in the genealogies and the meaning of the name itself.
1. **Divine Preservation of Lineage:** The meticulous detail of the Chronicler's genealogies, including seemingly minor figures like Rinnah, underscores God's faithfulness in preserving the lineage of His covenant people. Every individual, no matter how briefly mentioned, plays a role in the unfolding divine plan, culminating in the establishment of the Davidic line and ultimately, the Messiah.
2. **Meaning in Names:** Biblical names often carry prophetic, descriptive, or aspirational meanings. "Rinnah" (Shout of Joy) suggests a context of joy surrounding his birth, or perhaps an aspiration for a life filled with jubilation. It subtly points to the broader biblical theme that joy is a characteristic of God's people and a response to His acts of salvation.
3. **Subtle Hope:** In the context of genealogies that often bridge periods of hardship or exile, a name like "Shout of Joy" can serve as a subtle reminder of the enduring hope and ultimate triumph that God promises His people. Even when the historical narrative is silent on a person's life, their name can speak volumes about the spiritual climate or aspirations of their family.
4. **Inclusion in the Community of Faith:** Rinnah's presence in the lineage of Judah signifies his belonging to the chosen people, highlighting the corporate identity of Israel and the importance of individual members, however obscure, within the broader covenant community.
### Summary
`{{H7441}}` (Rinnâh) is a proper noun, a personal name meaning "Shout of Joy" or "Cry of Jubilation." It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 4:20]], as a descendant in the genealogy of the tribe of Judah. While Rinnah himself is not a prominent figure, his inclusion in the meticulous genealogies of Chronicles underscores God's faithfulness in preserving the lineage of His people. The name's etymological root connects it directly to the common noun `{{H7440}}` (rinnâh), signifying joyful acclamation, and broadly to biblical themes of praise, exultation, and the pervasive presence of joy as a characteristic of God's people. The theological significance lies in the divine preservation of lineage, the inherent meaning embedded in biblical names, and the subtle yet enduring message of hope and joy within the covenant community.
TRV