feminine of רֵעַ; a female associate; fellow, love.
Transliteration:raʻyâh
Pronunciation:rah-yaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H7474}}` (raʻyâh) is a feminine noun derived directly from `{{H7453}}` (rēaʿ), which broadly signifies a "friend," "companion," "neighbor," or "fellow." As its feminine counterpart, `{{H7474}}` specifically denotes a "female associate" or "female companion." However, its usage in the biblical text strongly emphasizes a more intimate and affectionate relationship, often translated as "beloved" or "my love." This semantic nuance moves beyond mere acquaintance to convey a deep personal bond, characterized by affection, mutuality, and cherished regard. It implies a relationship where one takes delight in the other's presence and character.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H7474}}` (raʻyâh) appears exclusively within the book of Song of Solomon, occurring nine times in total. In every instance, it is used as an address from the male lover to his female beloved, or from the female beloved to her male lover, though the Strong's definition specifically highlights its application to a "female associate." The consistent translation in English versions as "my love" or "my darling" underscores its profound affectionate connotation.
* [[Song of Solomon 1:9]]: "To me, my love, you are like a mare among Pharaoh’s chariots." Here, the lover expresses admiration and high regard.
* [[Song of Solomon 2:2]]: "Like a lily among thorns is my love among the young women." This verse highlights her unique beauty and purity in the eyes of her beloved.
* [[Song of Solomon 2:10]]: "My beloved spoke and said to me, 'Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away.'" An invitation to intimacy and shared experience.
* [[Song of Solomon 2:13]]: "Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away." A repetition emphasizing urgency and desire for her presence.
* [[Song of Solomon 4:1]]: "Behold, you are beautiful, my love, behold, you are beautiful!" A direct declaration of her captivating beauty.
* [[Song of Solomon 4:7]]: "You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you." A profound affirmation of her perfection in his eyes.
* [[Song of Solomon 5:2]]: "Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my perfect one." A plea for entry, combining familial affection with passionate love.
* [[Song of Solomon 6:4]]: "You are beautiful as Tirzah, my love, comely as Jerusalem, awesome as an army with banners." Comparing her beauty and majesty to revered cities and a powerful army.
* [[Song of Solomon 6:5]]: "Turn away your eyes from me, for they overcome me— Your hair is like a flock of goats leaping down the slopes of Gilead." Her beauty is so overwhelming it is almost unbearable.
The repeated use of `{{H7474}}` in these highly poetic and intimate contexts firmly establishes its meaning as a term of endearment for a cherished beloved, signifying deep admiration, desire, and exclusive affection within a romantic relationship.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is `{{H7453}}` (rēaʿ), the masculine form from which `{{H7474}}` is derived. While `{{H7453}}` has a broad semantic range encompassing general friendship, companionship, and even "neighbor" in a communal sense (e.g., [[Leviticus 19:18]]), `{{H7474}}` narrows this concept to a specific, intimate, and often romantic female relationship.
Other related concepts and terms for a beloved or spouse include:
* `{{H802}}` (ʾiššâ): "woman" or "wife," emphasizing the marital status.
* `{{H3618}}` (kallâ): "bride" or "daughter-in-law," focusing on the transitional phase of marriage.
* `{{H1730}}` (dôd): "beloved" or "lover," often used in Song of Solomon for the male lover.
* `{{H3039}}` (yāqār): "precious" or "costly," conveying value.
What distinguishes `{{H7474}}` is its unique focus on the *affectionate bond* itself, rather than merely a legal status or general social connection. It encapsulates the emotional depth of a relationship where the other person is truly "loved" and "cherished." It speaks to the heart of the relationship, emphasizing delight and mutual admiration.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H7474}}` is found exclusively in Song of Solomon, a book often interpreted allegorically, its theological significance can be profound. In the allegorical reading, where the male lover represents God (or Christ) and the female beloved represents Israel (or the Church), the consistent use of `{{H7474}}` to describe the beloved highlights the *intimate, personal, and deeply affectionate* nature of God's relationship with His people.
This term underscores that the divine-human relationship is not merely one of Creator-creature, King-subject, or Master-servant, but one characterized by passionate, unwavering love. God delights in His people, finds them beautiful, and cherishes them above all others. It speaks to the covenantal faithfulness of God, who sees His beloved as "altogether beautiful" with "no flaw" ([[Song of Solomon 4:7]]), reflecting His transformative grace.
Furthermore, within the context of human marriage, `{{H7474}}` provides a divine endorsement of pure, devoted, and affectionate love between a husband and wife. It portrays a relationship built on mutual admiration, longing, and delight, serving as a microcosm of the deeper spiritual union between Christ and His Church. It emphasizes the sacredness and beauty of intimacy within God's design.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H7474}}` (raʻyâh) is a singular and potent term, functioning as the feminine counterpart to `{{H7453}}` (rēaʿ). Though its base meaning is "female associate," its exclusive usage within the Song of Solomon elevates its semantic range to signify a deeply cherished and beloved female companion. Consistently translated as "my love" or "my darling," it encapsulates profound affection, admiration, and intimate delight between lovers. Theologically, especially within allegorical interpretations of Song of Solomon, `{{H7474}}` powerfully illustrates the tender, personal, and passionate love of God for His people, emphasizing His delight in them and the beauty of their relationship. It stands as a testament to the cherished, intimate bond that God desires with humanity, and the beauty of human love when it reflects divine affection.
TRV