Topical Encyclopedia Hareph is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah. His name appears in the context of the post-exilic period, specifically in the lineage of those who returned to Jerusalem and its surrounding areas after the Babylonian exile. The name "Hareph" is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "to pluck" or "to gather," which may suggest a role or characteristic attributed to him or his descendants.Biblical References: 1. 1 Chronicles 2:51 · "Salma the father of Bethlehem, Hareph the father of Beth-gader." In this passage, Hareph is identified as the "father of Beth-gader." The term "father" in this context is often understood to mean the founder or chief of a family or clan associated with a particular location. Beth-gader, therefore, would be a settlement or region linked to Hareph's lineage. The mention of Hareph in the genealogical records underscores the importance of family heritage and territorial claims among the tribes of Israel, particularly in the post-exilic restoration of the land. Historical and Cultural Context: The genealogies in 1 Chronicles serve to establish the continuity of the Israelite community, emphasizing the restoration of tribal and familial identities after the return from exile. Hareph's inclusion in these records highlights the significance of his lineage in the re-establishment of Judah's territorial and social structures. The Chronicler's intent was to affirm the legitimacy and divine sanction of the returning exiles' claims to their ancestral lands. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Hareph and other figures in the genealogies of Chronicles reflects the overarching biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Despite the disruptions caused by exile, the preservation and restoration of family lines like that of Hareph demonstrate God's ongoing commitment to His promises. The genealogies serve as a testament to the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel, as well as the hope of renewal and restoration for His people. Related Topics: · Genealogies in the Bible: The role and significance of genealogical records in biblical history and theology. · Post-Exilic Period: The historical and religious context of the Jewish return from Babylonian exile. · Tribe of Judah: The importance of Judah in Israel's history and its messianic implications. Hareph's brief mention in the biblical text invites readers to consider the broader narrative of restoration and divine faithfulness that characterizes the post-exilic period. His legacy, though not extensively detailed, contributes to the rich tapestry of Israel's history as recorded in the Scriptures. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary HarephSmith's Bible Dictionary Hareph(a plucking off), a name occurring in the genealogies of Judah as a son of Caleb and as "father of Bethgader." (1 Chronicles 2:51) only. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HAREPHha'-ref (chareph, "scornful"): A chief of Judah, one of the sons of Caleb and father of Beth-gader (1 Chronicles 2:51). A quite similar name, Hariph, occurs in Nehemiah 7:24; Nehemiah 10:19, but it is probably that of another individual. Strong's Hebrew 2780. Chareph -- a leader in Judah... 2779, 2780. Chareph. 2781 . a leader in Judah. Transliteration: Chareph Phonetic Spelling: (khaw-rafe') Short Definition: Hareph. ... Hareph. ... /hebrew/2780.htm - 6k Thesaurus Hareph (1 Occurrence)...HAREPH. ha'-ref (chareph, "scornful"): A chief of Judah, one of the sons of Caleb and father of Beth-gader (1 Chronicles 2:51). ...Hareph (1 Occurrence). ... /h/hareph.htm - 7k Gader (1 Occurrence) Beth-gader (1 Occurrence) Bethelem (1 Occurrence) Bethgader (1 Occurrence) Salma (3 Occurrences) Beth-lehem (49 Occurrences) Harem (8 Occurrences) Bethlehem (49 Occurrences) Haruphite (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Hareph (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 2:51 Subtopics Related Terms |