Rephai'ah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the genealogical and historical records of the tribes of Israel. His name, which can be translated as "Yahweh has healed" or "Jehovah has healed," reflects a common theophoric element in Hebrew names, indicating a connection to the divine.

Genealogical Context

Rephai'ah is noted as a descendant of David, the second king of Israel, through his son Shephatiah. This lineage places Rephai'ah within the tribe of Judah, which holds significant importance in biblical history as the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended. The genealogical records in 1 Chronicles provide insight into the familial lines that played roles in the post-exilic community of Israel.

1 Chronicles 3:21 states: "The sons of Shecaniah: Shemaiah and the sons of Shemaiah: Hattush, Igal, Bariah, Neariah, and Shaphat—six in all. The sons of Neariah: Elioenai, Hizkiah, and Azrikam—three in all. The sons of Elioenai: Hodaviah, Eliashib, Pelaiah, Akkub, Johanan, Delaiah, and Anani—seven in all."

Rephai'ah is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 3:21 as a descendant of Neariah, who is a descendant of David through Shephatiah. This places Rephai'ah in the line of David, emphasizing the continuity of Davidic lineage through the generations.

Role in the Rebuilding of Jerusalem

Rephai'ah is also recognized for his role in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls during the time of Nehemiah. This period was marked by the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylon and the subsequent efforts to restore the city and its fortifications. Rephai'ah's involvement in this significant project highlights his leadership and dedication to the community's restoration efforts.

Nehemiah 3:9 records: "Next to them, Rephaiah son of Hur, ruler of a half-district of Jerusalem, made repairs."

In this context, Rephai'ah is identified as the son of Hur and a ruler of a half-district of Jerusalem. His participation in the reconstruction of the city's walls underscores his position of authority and responsibility within the community. The rebuilding of the walls was a crucial task, symbolizing the renewal of the Jewish people's identity and security in their ancestral land.

Historical and Theological Significance

Rephai'ah's mention in the genealogical and historical records of the Old Testament serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Davidic line and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. His involvement in the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls reflects the broader theme of restoration and covenant faithfulness that permeates the post-exilic period.

The account of Rephai'ah, though brief, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical history, illustrating the interconnectedness of family, leadership, and divine purpose. His account is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and service in the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan for His people.Rephai'ah (5 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 3:21
And the sons of Hananiah: Pelatiah, and Jeshaiah; the sons of Jeshaiah: Rephaiah; the sons of Rephaiah: Arnan; the sons of Arnan: Obadiah; the sons of Obadiah: Shecaniah.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 4:42
And some of them, even of the sons of Simeon, five hundred men, went to mount Seir, having for their captains Pelatiah, and Neariah, and Rephaiah, and Uzziel, the sons of Ishi.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 7:2
And the sons of Tola: Uzzi and Rephaiah, and Jeriel, and Jahmai, and Ibsam, and Shemuel, heads of their fathers' houses, mighty men of valour according to their generations, even of Tola; their number in the days of David was two and twenty thousand and six hundred.
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 9:43
And Moza begot Binea; and Rephaiah his son, Eleasah his son, Azel his son.
(See RSV)

Nehemiah 3:9
And next unto them repaired Rephaiah the son of Hur, the ruler of half the district of Jerusalem.
(See RSV)

Rephai'ah (5 Occurrences)
Rephai'ah. Rephaiah, Rephai'ah. Rephaim . Multi-Version Concordance
Rephai'ah (5 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 3:21 And the sons of ...
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Rephaiah (5 Occurrences)

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Rephaim (32 Occurrences)

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