from רָעָה; a thought (as association of ideas); thought.
Transliteration:rêaʻ
Pronunciation:ray'-ah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term רֵעַ (*rêaʻ*), `{{H7454}}`, derives from the verb רָעָה (*ra'ah*), `{{H7462}}`, which primarily signifies "to pasture," "to tend," and by extension, "to associate with" or "to be a friend to." This etymological root immediately establishes the relational nature of *rêaʻ*. Its primary semantic range encompasses "associate," "companion," "friend," "fellow-man," and most notably, "neighbor." It denotes someone with whom one has a relationship, whether close or more general, often implying a reciprocal connection or shared social space.
While the provided base definition highlights "a thought (as association of ideas); thought," this represents a less common, abstract extension of the term's meaning. Strong's Concordance indeed notes an abstract sense of "will," "purpose," or "desire," suggesting a shared intention or mental connection within an association. However, the overwhelming majority of its occurrences in the Hebrew Bible refer to a concrete individual with whom one interacts, emphasizing the relational aspect over the abstract mental one. The "association of ideas" can be seen as the conceptual bridge between the verb "to associate" and the noun "associate/friend," leading to the abstract idea of shared mental states. Nevertheless, its dominant usage is firmly within the sphere of human relationships.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *rêaʻ* appears extensively throughout the Hebrew Bible, predominantly in legal, ethical, and wisdom literature, underscoring its importance in defining social interactions within ancient Israel.
Its most prominent usage is in the context of "neighbor" or "fellow-man," particularly within the Decalogue and subsequent legal codes. For instance, the prohibition against bearing false witness is phrased as "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" ([[Exodus 20:16]], [[Deuteronomy 5:20]]). Similarly, the prohibition against coveting extends to "your neighbor's house... wife... male or female servant... ox... donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's" ([[Exodus 20:17]], [[Deuteronomy 5:21]]). These commands establish the fundamental respect and boundaries required in community life.
Crucially, *rêaʻ* is central to the second great commandment: "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord" ([[Leviticus 19:18]]). This verse elevates the treatment of one's *rêaʻ* to a theological imperative, linking it directly to the nature of God.
In wisdom literature, *rêaʻ* often denotes a "friend" or "companion," highlighting the value and challenges of such relationships. Proverbs frequently speaks of the benefits of a loyal friend ([[Proverbs 27:10]]) and the dangers of a deceitful one ([[Proverbs 25:17]]). Job's companions are referred to as his *rêaʻ* ([[Job 2:11]]), and their subsequent interactions illustrate both the comfort and the failure of friendship. In the Psalms, the betrayal by a trusted *rêaʻ* is a source of profound pain ([[Psalm 41:9]]).
The more abstract sense of "thought" or "will" is exceedingly rare and often inferred rather than directly translated. For example, some interpret its use in passages like [[Deuteronomy 13:6]] (where it refers to a "friend" who secretly entices) as potentially hinting at shared intent or persuasion, but the primary meaning remains relational.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of *rêaʻ* is enriched by its relationship with several other Hebrew terms:
* **רָעָה (*ra'ah*), `{{H7462}}`**: The root verb "to pasture, tend, associate with." This connection underscores the idea of mutual care, shared space, and companionship inherent in *rêaʻ*.
* **רֵעוּת (*re'ut*), `{{H7468}}`**: A feminine noun derived from the same root, meaning "friendship" or "companionship," emphasizing the abstract quality of the relationship.
* **אָח (*ach*), `{{H157}}`**: "Brother," a term often used broadly to refer to a kinsman, fellow Israelite, or even a close associate, overlapping with the inclusive sense of *rêaʻ*.
* **חָבֵר (*chaver*), `{{H2800}}`**: "Companion," "associate," "friend." This term is very close in meaning to *rêaʻ*, often used interchangeably in contexts of fellowship and partnership.
* **אֱנוֹשׁ (*enosh*), `{{H582}}` / אָדָם (*adam*), `{{H120}}`**: General terms for "man" or "humankind," which *rêaʻ* particularizes by focusing on the relational aspect between individuals.
The concepts intricately linked with *rêaʻ* include covenant, community ethics, social justice, loyalty, betrayal, and the fundamental principle of love within the divine-human covenant.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *rêaʻ* is profound, extending far beyond a mere descriptor of social ties.
1. **Covenantal Obligation:** The concept of the "neighbor" is foundational to the Mosaic Covenant. How one treats their *rêaʻ* is a direct reflection of their obedience and fidelity to God. The commands regarding the *rêaʻ* in the Decalogue and legal codes are not merely societal rules but divine mandates that establish the ethical framework for the covenant community.
2. **Imago Dei and Human Dignity:** Each *rêaʻ* is created in the image of God, endowing them with inherent dignity and worth. Therefore, actions against a *rêaʻ*—such as stealing, lying, or coveting—are not just social transgressions but affronts to God's created order and His image in humanity.
3. **Love as a Core Principle:** The command to "love your neighbor as yourself" ([[Leviticus 19:18]]) is a theological high point, later affirmed by Jesus as the second greatest commandment ([[Matthew 22:39]]). This elevates the treatment of one's *rêaʻ* from mere adherence to law to an active, empathetic, and selfless disposition, reflecting God's own love and character.
4. **Community and Responsibility:** *Rêaʻ* emphasizes the interconnectedness of individuals within a community. One's actions have consequences for others, and there is a shared responsibility for the well-being and flourishing of the collective. This fosters a sense of communal solidarity and mutual accountability.
5. **Justice and Righteousness:** The proper treatment of one's *rêaʻ* is a litmus test for true righteousness. Prophets frequently condemn those who oppress their *rêaʻ* or exploit them for personal gain, underscoring that genuine faith must manifest in just and compassionate relationships.
### Summary
The Hebrew word רֵעַ (*rêaʻ*), `{{H7454}}`, primarily denotes an "associate," "companion," "friend," or "neighbor," stemming from the root meaning "to tend" or "to associate with." While it holds a rare, abstract sense of "thought" or "will" (as in shared ideas), its overwhelming biblical usage is concrete and relational. Found extensively in legal, ethical, and wisdom literature, *rêaʻ* underscores the importance of human relationships within the covenant community. It is central to the Decalogue's prohibitions against harming one's fellow and culminates in the profound command to "love your neighbor as yourself" ([[Leviticus 19:18]]). Theologically, *rêaʻ* highlights covenantal obligations, the inherent dignity of humanity, the centrality of love, and the imperative for justice and righteousness in all social interactions, serving as a foundational concept for biblical ethics.
TRV