### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Rᵉʻêlâyâh**, represented by `{{H7480}}`, means **made to tremble (i.e. fearful) of Jah**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, identifying a specific Israelite individual. Its rarity makes its single appearance noteworthy within the biblical record.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{H7480}}` is found in a list of men who returned from the Babylonian exile. Reelaiah is named as one of the individuals who **came** with Zerubbabel, a key leader in the restoration of Israel [[Ezra 2:2]]. This context places him among "the men of the people of Israel," signifying his role as part of the community that re-established the nation in its homeland after a period of judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Reelaiah’s mention in [[Ezra 2:2]] connects his identity to several other significant Hebrew words:
* `{{H935}}` **bôwʼ** (to go or come): This verb describes the action of the returnees, a central theme of restoration. It is used to describe God's promise to **bring** His people back to their own land [[Ezekiel 34:13]].
* `{{H582}}` **ʼĕnôwsh** (a mortal, a man in general): This term identifies Reelaiah as one of "the men" returning. It often emphasizes human frailty in contrast to God, as in the question of why one should be afraid of a **man** that shall die [[Isaiah 51:12]].
* `{{H5971}}` **ʻam** (a people): Reelaiah is part of the **people** of Israel, a term used to denote a congregated unit or tribe. This word is central to God's covenant declaration, "they shall be my **people**" [[Jeremiah 31:33]].
* `{{H3478}}` **Yisrâʼêl** (he will rule as God; Israel): This identifies the national and covenantal group to which Reelaiah belongs. The name **Israel** is used to designate the people God has chosen as His own and redeemed [[Isaiah 44:6]].
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the name `{{H7480}}` carries theological weight through its meaning and context.
* **Reverence for God:** The name itself, meaning "fearful of Jah," points to a personal or familial identity centered on reverence for the Lord. It encapsulates a core tenet of the proper relationship between humanity and God.
* **Role in Restoration:** Reelaiah's inclusion in the list of returnees [[Ezra 2:2]] marks him as a participant in one of God's great acts of salvation history—the restoration of Israel to its land, which fulfills divine promises.
* **Covenant Membership:** Being counted among "the men of the people of Israel" affirms his place within the covenant community. His presence is a testament to the survival and continuity of God's chosen people through exile and back.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7480}}` **Rᵉʻêlâyâh** is the name of a specific Israelite who participated in the return from exile. Although mentioned only in a single list, the name's meaning ("fearful of Jah") and its historical setting give it significance. It serves as a reminder that the grand narrative of God's faithfulness to His people is composed of the lives and identities of individuals like Reelaiah.
TRV