Strong's Lexicon rayah: Friend, companion, neighbor Original Word: רֵעַ Word Origin: Derived from the root רָעָה (ra'ah), which means "to associate with" or "to befriend." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: - G4139 (πλησίον, plēsion) - often translated as "neighbor" in the New Testament. - G5384 (φίλος, philos) - meaning "friend." Usage: The Hebrew word "rayah" primarily denotes a friend or companion, someone with whom one shares a close relationship. It can also refer to a neighbor, emphasizing the social and communal aspects of life in ancient Israel. The term is used to describe relationships characterized by loyalty, trust, and mutual support. Cultural and Historical Background: In ancient Israelite society, community and relationships were central to daily life. The concept of "rayah" reflects the importance of social bonds and the expectation of mutual care and responsibility among individuals. Friendships and neighborly relations were vital for survival, support, and maintaining social harmony. The Hebrew Bible often emphasizes the ethical treatment of one's "rayah," underscoring the moral obligations inherent in these relationships. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom raah Definition a companion NASB Translation darling (9). Brown-Driver-Briggs [רַעְיָה] noun feminine companion; — of beloved bride, suffix רַעְיָתִי Songs 1:9,15; Songs 2:2,10,13; Songs 4:1,7; Songs 5:2; Songs 6:4; so of attendant maidens Judges 11:37 Kt, but see foregoing. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance fellow, love Feminine of rea'; a female associate -- fellow, love. see HEBREW rea' Forms and Transliterations וְרֵעֹותָֽי׃ ורעותי׃ רַעְיָתִ֔י רַעְיָתִ֖י רַעְיָתִ֥י רַעְיָתִֽי׃ רַעְיָתִי֙ רעיתי רעיתי׃ ra‘·yā·ṯî ra‘yāṯî rayaTi vereoTai wə·rê·‘ō·w·ṯāy wərê‘ōwṯāyLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Judges 11:37 HEB: [וְרַעִיתִי כ] (וְרֵעֹותָֽי׃ ק) INT: of my virginity I fellow Songs 1:9 Songs 1:15 Songs 2:2 Songs 2:10 Songs 2:13 Songs 4:1 Songs 4:7 Songs 5:2 Songs 6:4 10 Occurrences |