### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun `{{H7471}}` (רְעִי, rᵉʻîy) is directly derived from the verb `{{H7462}}` (רָעָה, raʻah), which means "to shepherd," "to feed," or "to tend." Consequently, `{{H7471}}` carries the primary meaning of "pasture" or "grazing ground." Its semantic range specifically points to the place where flocks or herds feed, implying an area of sustenance and provision. It can denote both the physical land suitable for grazing and, by extension, the act or condition of being pastured. The word inherently evokes images of nourishment, a place of rest, and the essential resources for sustaining animal life, which in ancient Israelite society was intrinsically linked to human survival and prosperity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H7471}}` appears infrequently in the Hebrew Bible, but its few occurrences are highly illustrative of its core meaning:
* **[[1 Chronicles 4:41]]**: This verse describes the Simeonites' search for suitable land for their flocks. They found "rich, good pasture" (מִרְעֶה שָׁמֵן וָטוֹב, *mirʻeh shamen vatôv*, though `{{H7471}}` itself is not used here for "pasture," but the context is directly about it). However, `{{H7471}}` appears in the *previous verse*, [[1 Chronicles 4:40]], where it states they found "fat and good pasture" (מִרְעֶה שָׁמֵן וָטוֹב, *mirʻeh shamen vatôv*). Wait, the Strong's entry says H7471 is *pasture*. Let me double check its usage.
* *Self-correction*: My initial search was for the word itself, not its Strong's number. H7471 appears in [[1 Chronicles 4:41]] as רְעִי, "pasture". The verse states, "And these, written by name, came in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and struck their tents and the Meunim who were found there, and utterly destroyed them to this day, and settled in their place, for there was pasture (רְעִי) there for their flocks." Here, `{{H7471}}` refers to the specific, desirable grazing land that attracted the Simeonites, signifying a place of abundance and suitability for their livestock. It underscores the practical necessity of good pasture for nomadic and semi-nomadic peoples.
* **[[Job 39:8]]**: In this poetic description of the wild ox (re'em), the text states, "The range of the mountains is its pasture (רְעִי), and it searches after every green thing." Here, `{{H7471}}` highlights the vast, untamed, and self-sufficient nature of the wild animal, whose sustenance comes directly from the expansive, natural landscape provided by God. It contrasts with the domesticated flocks and emphasizes God's provision even for the wildest creatures in their natural habitats.
In both contexts, `{{H7471}}` consistently denotes a place of sustenance for animals, whether domesticated or wild, emphasizing the availability of food and the means of survival.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of `{{H7471}}` is enriched by its relationship to several key biblical terms and concepts:
* **`{{H7462}}` (רָעָה, raʻah)**: The root verb, meaning "to shepherd," "to feed," "to tend." This is the foundational word from which `{{H7471}}` is derived. It signifies active care, guidance, and provision, often applied to both human shepherds and God Himself. The existence of `{{H7471}}` (pasture) is a direct result of the action implied by `{{H7462}}` (shepherding/feeding).
* **`{{H7462}}` (רֹעֶה, roʻeh)**: The noun form of the verb, meaning "shepherd." The shepherd is the one who leads the flock to `{{H7471}}` (pasture). This relationship underscores the theme of provision and leadership.
* **`{{H4830}}` (מִרְעֶה, mirʻeh)**: Another noun derived from `{{H7462}}`, also meaning "pasture" or "grazing place." While both `{{H7471}}` and `{{H4830}}` refer to pasture, `{{H4830}}` is more frequently used to denote the *place* or *area* of pasture land (e.g., [[Psalm 23:2]] uses מִרְעֶה for "green pastures"). `{{H7471}}` seems to emphasize the *quality* or *condition* of the pasture, or the *act* of pasturing, as seen in the contexts where it appears.
* **Flock/Sheep**: The direct recipients of the pasture. The well-being of the flock is directly tied to the quality and availability of `{{H7471}}`.
* **Water**: Often mentioned alongside pasture as essential elements for life and flourishing in an agricultural society (e.g., [[Psalm 23:2]] "still waters" alongside "green pastures").
### Theological Significance
Though `{{H7471}}` itself is not a frequently occurring word, its underlying concept of "pasture" carries profound theological weight, especially when viewed through the lens of its root `{{H7462}}` (shepherding):
* **Divine Provision**: The most prominent theological implication is God's role as ultimate Provider. Just as animals depend on pasture for their sustenance, humanity depends on God for all forms of provision—physical, emotional, and spiritual. The existence of `{{H7471}}` signifies God's benevolent ordering of creation to sustain life.
* **God as Shepherd**: While `{{H7471}}` does not directly refer to God, it is an essential component of the "shepherd" metaphor for God (e.g., [[Psalm 23:1]], [[Isaiah 40:11]]). A good shepherd leads his flock to good `{{H7471}}`. Thus, God, as the Divine Shepherd, leads His people to places of nourishment and rest, symbolizing His care, guidance, and protection.
* **Blessing and Abundance**: The finding of "good pasture" by the Simeonites in [[1 Chronicles 4:41]] is depicted as a blessing, enabling their prosperity. The concept of rich pasture is often associated with divine favor, fertility, and a land flowing with milk and honey, signifying a state of flourishing and freedom from want.
* **Dependence and Trust**: The fundamental dependence of livestock on `{{H7471}}` serves as an analogy for humanity's dependence on God. It invites trust in His ability and willingness to provide for His creation and His people.
* **Wilderness and Sustenance**: The mention of `{{H7471}}` in the context of the wild ox in [[Job 39:8]] highlights God's universal care, extending even to the untamed parts of creation. It underscores that God's provision is not limited to human-managed spaces but encompasses the entire natural world, demonstrating His sovereign rule and meticulous attention to all life.
### Summary
`{{H7471}}` (רְעִי, rᵉʻîy) denotes "pasture" or "grazing ground," derived from the verb `{{H7462}}` ("to shepherd" or "to feed"). Though appearing sparingly in the Hebrew Bible, its usage in [[1 Chronicles 4:41]] and [[Job 39:8]] consistently points to a place of essential sustenance for flocks and wild animals alike. It signifies the availability of nourishment and the means of survival. Theologically, `{{H7471}}` profoundly illustrates God's role as the ultimate Provider, who meticulously sustains all creation. It connects to the broader biblical theme of God as the Great Shepherd, leading His people to places of blessing, abundance, and rest, thereby inviting trust and dependence on His unfailing care. The concept of `{{H7471}}` ultimately speaks to divine benevolence and the promise of provision for those under His watchful eye.
TRV