Topical Encyclopedia Rephah is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Ephraim, one of the tribes of Israel. His name appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the First Book of Chronicles. The genealogical records in Chronicles serve to establish the lineage and heritage of the tribes of Israel, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with His people through their descendants.Biblical Reference: Rephah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 7:25: "Rephah was his son, Resheph his son, Telah his son, Tahan his son." Genealogical Context: Rephah is listed as a descendant of Ephraim, the son of Joseph. Ephraim, along with his brother Manasseh, was one of the two sons of Joseph who were adopted by Jacob (Israel) and given a portion of the inheritance among the tribes of Israel. This adoption elevated Ephraim and Manasseh to the status of tribal patriarchs, each receiving a share of the Promised Land. The genealogy in 1 Chronicles 7 traces the lineage of Ephraim, highlighting the descendants who played roles in the history and development of the tribe. Rephah is one of these descendants, and his mention, though brief, contributes to the broader narrative of the tribe's history. Historical and Theological Significance: The genealogies in the Bible, including the mention of Rephah, serve several purposes. They affirm the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, particularly the promise to Abraham that his descendants would become a great nation. By tracing the lineage of Ephraim, the chronicler underscores the faithfulness of God in preserving the tribes of Israel. From a theological perspective, the genealogies remind readers of the importance of heritage and identity within the covenant community. They also reflect the continuity of God's redemptive plan through successive generations, culminating in the coming of the Messiah, who is traced through the line of Judah but whose account is intertwined with all the tribes of Israel. Cultural and Tribal Identity: For the Israelites, genealogies were crucial in maintaining tribal identity and inheritance rights. The mention of Rephah within the Ephraimite genealogy would have been significant for the members of the tribe, as it reinforced their connection to the patriarchs and their rightful place within the nation of Israel. In summary, while Rephah is a relatively obscure figure in the biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles highlights the importance of lineage and the enduring legacy of the tribes of Israel as part of God's covenantal promises. Smith's Bible Dictionary Rephaha son of Ephraim, and ancestor of Joshua. (1 Chronicles 7:26) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia REPHAHre'-fa (rephach (the form is corrupt); Rhaphe): The eponym of an Ephraimite family (1 Chronicles 7:25). Strong's Hebrew 7506. Rephach -- an Ephraimite... 7505, 7506. Rephach. 7507 . an Ephraimite. Transliteration: Rephach Phonetic Spelling: (reh'-fakh) Short Definition: Rephah. ... Rephah. ... /hebrew/7506.htm - 5k Thesaurus Rephah (1 Occurrence)...REPHAH. re'-fa (rephach (the form is corrupt); Rhaphe): The eponym of an Ephraimite family (1 Chronicles 7:25). Multi-Version Concordance Rephah (1 Occurrence). ... /r/rephah.htm - 6k Rephaiah (5 Occurrences) Telah (1 Occurrence) Tahan (2 Occurrences) Reph'a-el (1 Occurrence) Resheph (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Rephah (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 7:25 Subtopics Related Terms |