### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼArpakshad**, represented by `{{H775}}`, refers to a post-flood patriarch named Arphaxad. The name is noted as being probably of foreign origin. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in scripture, primarily within genealogies that establish the lineage descending from Noah's son, Shem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H775}}` is consistently placed as a critical link in the generations following the great flood. He is identified as one of the sons of Shem ([[Genesis 10:22]], [[1 Chronicles 1:17]]). Scripture specifies that he was born two years after the flood [[Genesis 11:10]]. The genealogies further record that Arphaxad begat Salah [[Genesis 10:24]] and lived for many years afterward, begetting other sons and daughters [[Genesis 11:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding Arphaxad's place in the biblical lineage:
* `{{H8035}}` **Shêm** (Shem, a son of Noah): This identifies Arphaxad's father, placing him directly in the lineage of the son of Noah who received a blessing [[Genesis 9:26]]. Arphaxad is listed among the children of Shem [[Genesis 10:22]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This term defines the generational relationship. Arphaxad is a **son** of Shem [[1 Chronicles 1:17]], and this word is used to structure the entire genealogical account.
* `{{H7974}}` **Shelach** (Shelach, a postdiluvian patriarch; Salah, Shelah): This is the name of Arphaxad's son and heir in the recorded lineage, linking Arphaxad to subsequent generations [[Genesis 10:24]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This verb is the primary action word in the genealogies, establishing the direct line of descent. The text states that Arphaxad **begat** Salah [[Genesis 11:12]].
### Theological Significance
The genealogical weight of `{{H775}}` is significant for the biblical timeline and the establishment of the Israelite people.
* **Post-Flood Continuity:** Arphaxad's birth is explicitly timed as taking place "two years after the flood," making him a foundational figure in the world's repopulation and the continuation of the godly line through Shem [[Genesis 11:10]].
* **Link to Eber:** He is the father of Shelah and the grandfather of Eber ([[Genesis 10:24]], [[1 Chronicles 1:18]]). Eber is a key patriarch from whom the term "Hebrew" is derived, making Arphaxad a direct ancestor.
* **Chronological Marker:** The accounts in Genesis meticulously record that Arphaxad was thirty-five years old when he begat Salah and that he lived hundreds of years more, demonstrating the importance of his life in the scriptural timeline [[Genesis 11:12-13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H775}}` is far more than just a name in a list. As Arphaxad, he is a vital patriarchal figure in the biblical record. His position as a son of Shem and an ancestor of Eber secures a crucial link in the lineage from Noah's family to the patriarchs of Israel. The detailed accounting of his life underscores his importance in establishing the historical and theological continuity of God's people after the flood.
TRV