### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Rᵉphâʼêl**, represented by `{{H7501}}`, means **God has cured**. Derived from the words `רָפָא` (cured) and `אֵל` (God), this name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. It serves to identify a specific Israelite individual rather than a broader concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical mention of **Rᵉphâʼêl** occurs in a genealogical list within 1 Chronicles. He is named as one of the **sons** of Shemaiah. The full verse reads: "The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah" [[1 Chronicles 26:7]]. This context establishes his identity and places him within a family noted for its members being **strong** `{{H2428}}` men.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the surrounding text provide a fuller picture of **Rᵉphâʼêl**'s identity and family standing:
* `{{H8098}}` **Shᵉmaʻyâh**: This is the name of Rephael's father, meaning "Jah has heard." His role as the patriarch connects **Rᵉphâʼêl** to a lineage with faith-based names [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên**: Defined as "a son," this word is used to identify **Rᵉphâʼêl**'s relationship to Shemaiah and is also used in the phrase "strong **men**" to describe the family's character [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch**: This word for "a brother" is used to describe the relationship between **Rᵉphâʼêl** and his kinsmen, Elzabad, Elihu, and Semachiah, grouping them together as a family unit [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
* `{{H2428}}` **chayil**: This term denotes "strength, valor, might" and is used to characterize **Rᵉphâʼêl**'s brethren, indicating they were men of recognized ability and power [[1 Chronicles 26:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7501}}` is primarily found in the meaning of the name itself.
* **A Statement of Faith:** The name **Rᵉphâʼêl**, meaning **God has cured**, functions as a personal testimony. It reflects a belief in God's direct intervention and healing power, making a person's identity a declaration of God's character.
* **A Theophoric Lineage:** Rephael is the **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Shemaiah** `{{H8098}}`, whose name means "Jah has heard." The father's name expresses a plea or testimony of being heard by God, while the son's name declares the result: "God has cured." Many of his brothers also bear names acknowledging God, such as **Elzabad** `{{H443}}`, "God has bestowed," and **Elihu** `{{H453}}`, "God of him."
* **God as the Source of Strength:** The family is described as being composed of **strong** `{{H2428}}` men. Within a family whose names testify to God's actions, this strength can be seen as a direct blessing from God, a result of the very healing and provision their names proclaim.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7501}}` **Rᵉphâʼêl** is the name of an Israelite mentioned once in scripture. While the Bible provides limited details about his life, his name carries significant weight, offering a concise and powerful theological statement: **God has cured**. Located within a family of **strong** men whose names also honor God, **Rᵉphâʼêl**'s identity is part of a larger familial testimony to the power and faithfulness of God to hear and to act.
TRV