Reumah: A Concubine of Nahor
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Reumah is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Genesis. She is identified as a concubine of Nahor, who was the brother of Abraham. The brief mention of Reumah is found in Genesis 22:24, which states: "Moreover, his concubine, whose name was Reumah, also bore Tebah, Gaham, Tahash, and Maacah."

Genealogical Context

Nahor, the son of Terah, is an important figure in the genealogical line leading to the patriarchs of Israel. He married Milcah, the daughter of Haran, and together they had eight children, including Bethuel, the father of Rebekah. Reumah, as Nahor's concubine, bore him four additional children: Tebah, Gaham, Tahash, and Maacah. These offspring, while not as prominently featured in the biblical narrative as Nahor's children with Milcah, contribute to the broader genealogical tapestry of the ancient Near East.

Cultural and Historical Significance

In the ancient Near Eastern context, concubinage was a socially accepted practice, often serving to strengthen familial ties and increase progeny. Concubines, while not holding the same status as wives, were integral to the household and could bear children who were recognized as legitimate heirs. Reumah's role as Nahor's concubine reflects these cultural norms and highlights the complex family structures of the time.

Theological Implications

The mention of Reumah and her children underscores the expansive nature of God's providence and the unfolding of His plan through diverse familial lines. While the primary biblical narrative focuses on the lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, figures like Reumah remind readers of the broader scope of God's interaction with humanity. Her inclusion in the genealogical record serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of various peoples and the unfolding of divine purposes through seemingly peripheral characters.

Legacy and Influence

Although Reumah's children do not play a significant role in the biblical narrative, their mention suggests the existence of other tribes and groups that interacted with the descendants of Abraham. The genealogical records in Genesis often serve to establish the relationships between different peoples and to provide a historical framework for understanding the development of nations in the biblical world.

In summary, Reumah's brief appearance in the Scriptures as Nahor's concubine and the mother of his children highlights the multifaceted nature of biblical genealogies and the cultural practices of the time. Her account, though not elaborated upon, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history and the unfolding of God's plan through diverse human relationships.
Nave's Topical Index
Genesis 22:24
And his concubine, whose name was Reumah, she bore also Tebah, and Gaham, and Thahash, and Maachah.
Nave's Topical Index

Strong's Hebrew
7208. Reumah -- concubine of Nahor
... 7207, 7208. Reumah. 7209 . concubine of Nahor. Transliteration: Reumah
Phonetic Spelling: (reh-oo-maw') Short Definition: Reumah. ...
/hebrew/7208.htm - 6k
Library

Chapter xxii
... These eight did Milcah bear to Nahor, Abraham's brother. And his concubine, whose
name was Reumah, she also bare sons, Tebah, and Gaham, and Tahash, Maacah. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xxii.htm

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