Name Meaning: The name Re'u (Hebrew: רְעוּ, Re'u) is often understood to mean "friend" or "companion."

Biblical References: Re'u is a figure mentioned in the genealogies of the Book of Genesis. He is a descendant of Shem, the son of Noah, and is part of the lineage leading to Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelites.

Genealogy and Historical Context: Re'u is listed as the son of Peleg and the father of Serug. His genealogy is significant as it traces the line from Shem to Abraham, highlighting the continuity of God's covenantal promises through specific family lines. The genealogical record in Genesis 11:18-21 provides the following details:

"When Peleg was 30 years old, he became the father of Reu. And after he became the father of Reu, Peleg lived 209 years and had other sons and daughters. When Reu was 32 years old, he became the father of Serug. And after he became the father of Serug, Reu lived 207 years and had other sons and daughters." (Genesis 11:18-21)

Chronological Placement: Re'u lived during the post-Flood era, a time characterized by the gradual repopulation of the earth and the dispersion of nations. His life spans a period that is crucial for understanding the development of early human civilization and the spread of different peoples and languages, as described in the account of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9).

Theological Significance: Re'u's place in the genealogy underscores the faithfulness of God in preserving a remnant through whom He would fulfill His redemptive purposes. The genealogies in Genesis serve not only as historical records but also as theological affirmations of God's sovereign plan. Re'u's inclusion in this lineage points to the unfolding of God's promise to bless all nations through Abraham's seed (Genesis 12:1-3).

Cultural and Historical Insights: The genealogical records, including that of Re'u, provide insights into the patriarchal society of the ancient Near East. These records emphasize the importance of lineage and heritage in maintaining cultural and religious identity. The long lifespans recorded in these genealogies reflect a different understanding of time and human longevity in the ancient world, which has been the subject of much scholarly discussion.

Legacy: While Re'u himself is not a prominent figure in biblical narratives, his role as an ancestor of Abraham places him within the broader context of salvation history. His life and lineage are integral to the biblical narrative that leads to the establishment of Israel and the eventual coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, who is seen as the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham and his descendants.

Chapter xxxvi
... Zibe'on signifies "hyena." Basemath (v. Genesis 36:3) means "perfume." 'Eliphaz
seems to mean "pure gold." Re'u'el (v. Genesis 36:4) is "friend of God," though ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxxvi.htm

Re'u (6 Occurrences)
Re'u. Reu, Re'u. Reuben . Multi-Version Concordance Re'u (6 Occurrences).
Luke 3:35 the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of ...
/r/re'u.htm - 7k

Reu (6 Occurrences)
... REU. re'-u, roo (re`u, Rhagau): A son of Peleg, a descendant of Shem (Genesis
11:18 1 Chronicles 1:25 Luke 3:35). Multi-Version Concordance Reu (6 Occurrences). ...
/r/reu.htm - 8k

Raguel (1 Occurrence)
... ra-gu'-el, rag'-u-el (re`u'-el; Septuagint: Rhagouel): The Midianite chothen, ie
either father-in-law or brother-in-law of Moses (Numbers 10:29 the King James ...
/r/raguel.htm - 9k

Reuel (14 Occurrences)
... roo'-el (re`u'el, "God is his friend"; the Septuagint Rhagouel): (1) In the
genealogical system Reuel is both a son of Esau by Basemath (Genesis 36:4, 10, 13 ...
/r/reuel.htm - 12k

Reuben (73 Occurrences)

/r/reuben.htm - 46k

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