Rehob

The name Rehob, derived from the Hebrew root רחב (rḥv), carries the meaning of "open space" or "wide place." It reflects a sense of expansiveness and freedom, which resonates with the idea of divine provision and abundance. Linguistically, Hans Rechenmacher suggests that the name might be a truncated form of a longer theophoric name, implying that it originally included a reference to God, such as "(God) has made wide." This interpretation aligns with the Septuagint's rendering of the name as Ρααβ (Raab) and the Vulgate's translation as Roob. The name's etymological roots emphasize its symbolic connection to openness and divine blessing, qualities often associated with the Promised Land. Historically, the vocalization of the name has been a subject of debate, but its core meaning remains tied to themes of space and provision.

In biblical narratives, the name Rehob is associated with both places and people, reflecting its multifaceted significance. The Divine Proximity Index of 85.0/100 underscores its strong connection to God's overarching plan, while the Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 highlights its relevance in the broader context of salvation history. Rehob appears as the name of three cities and two individuals in the Old Testament, each with unique roles and spiritual implications. For instance, Rehob as a city represents a boundary marker of the Promised Land, symbolizing God's promise of abundance and space for His people. On the other hand, Rehob as an individual—such as the father of Hadadezer, king of Zobah—serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty in geopolitical affairs, as David's victory over Hadadezer illustrates divine intervention in human conflicts. Furthermore, the Levite Rehob, who sealed Nehemiah's covenant, highlights the name's association with spiritual renewal and commitment to God's covenant.

The name Rehob appears in 16 verses across the Bible, emphasizing its significance in various contexts. As a place name, Rehob is mentioned in connection with the exploration of the Promised Land in Numbers 13:21, where spies ventured as far north as this city in the upper Jordan River Valley. This highlights Rehob's role as a geographical marker of God's promise to Israel. Additionally, Rehob is identified as two cities within the territory of Asher (Joshua 19:28, 19:30), reflecting the challenges faced by the Israelites in fully claiming the land, as one of these cities remained under Canaanite control. As a personal name, Rehob gains prominence through figures like the father of Hadadezer (2 Samuel 8:3–12), whose defeat by King David underscores God's intervention in establishing Israel's dominance. Another notable mention is the Levite Rehob, who participated in sealing Nehemiah's covenant (Nehemiah 10:11), symbolizing a collective renewal of faith and commitment to God's laws. Together, these references paint a picture of Rehob as a name deeply rooted in God's promises, sovereignty, and covenantal relationships.