### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Rᵉʻûw**, represented by `{{H7466}}`, is the name of a postdiluvian patriarch. The name, which can mean friend, appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, exclusively within genealogical records.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H7466}}` appears solely to establish a specific link in the lineage after the flood. The book of Genesis identifies **Rᵉʻûw** as the son of Peleg, stating that Peleg lived thirty years and begat **Rᵉʻûw** [[Genesis 11:18]]. In turn, **Rᵉʻûw** lived thirty-two years and begat Serug [[Genesis 11:20]]. The narrative further details that after the birth of their respective sons, both Peleg and **Rᵉʻûw** lived for many more years and begat other sons and daughters ([[Genesis 11:19]], [[Genesis 11:21]]). His name is also listed in the genealogy found in 1 Chronicles [[1 Chronicles 1:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding the context in which **Rᵉʻûw** appears:
* `{{H6389}}` **Peleg** (earthquake; Peleg, a son of Shem): This is the name of the father of Reu, establishing the preceding link in the patriarchal line [[Genesis 11:18]].
* `{{H8286}}` **Sᵉrûwg** (tendril; Serug, a postdiluvian patriarch): This is the name of the son of Reu, establishing the next link in the same lineage [[Genesis 11:20]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This verb is used repeatedly to describe the action that defines Reu's role in the biblical record, which is to beget his successor ([[Genesis 11:18]], [[Genesis 11:20]]).
* `{{H2421}}` **châyâh** (to live, whether literally or figuratively): This word is used to frame the life of Reu, noting the years he lived before and after begetting his son, Serug [[Genesis 11:20-21]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word signifies the continuation of the family line, as the text notes that Reu begat **sons** and daughters after Serug was born [[Genesis 11:21]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H7466}}` is focused entirely on his genealogical function.
* **Genealogical Link:** The primary role of Reu is to serve as a vital link in the chain of generations. He connects his father, Peleg, to his son, Serug, ensuring the documented continuity of the patriarchal line ([[Genesis 11:18]], [[Genesis 11:20]]).
* **Postdiluvian Posterity:** Reu's story, like those of his ancestors and descendants, emphasizes the theme of life and procreation after the flood. The text explicitly states that he lived on and "begat sons and daughters" [[Genesis 11:21]].
* **Chronological Marker:** The details of Reu's life—living thirty-two years before begetting a son and two hundred and seven years after—serve as a chronological marker within the biblical history of the patriarchs [[Genesis 11:20-21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7466}}` identifies the patriarch **Rᵉʻûw**, a figure whose importance lies in his specific place within the post-flood lineage. While not a central character who acts within a broader narrative, his presence in Genesis and 1 Chronicles is essential for the meticulous documentation of the generations. His life, defined by the verbs to **live** `{{H2421}}` and to **beget** `{{H3205}}`, underscores the biblical emphasis on heritage and the continuation of humanity through specific family lines.
TRV