Raphah
Raphah in the Bible — father of Ishbi-benob (2SA 21:16). Referenced in 3 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “Raphu, relaxation; physic; comfort”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 3 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 2 connections
Biography
Raphah is a male biblical figure identified primarily as the father of Ishbi-benob, mentioned in 2 Samuel 21:16. Some Bible translations render his name as "the giant," indicating a possible association with the Rephaim, a group of giants noted in Scripture. Beyond this, little else is directly recorded about his tribe or broader background.
Names & Titles
The name Raphah is a proper name possibly meaning "one healed." There is no indication that this name was given by God. The meaning itself does not appear to carry significant theological weight within the biblical text but serves to identify this individual distinctly.
Family
Scripture records Raphah as the father of Ishbi-benob, as noted in 2 Samuel 21:16. Additionally, he is inferred to be an ancestor of Saph, mentioned in 2 Samuel 21:18. These relationships situate Raphah within a lineage connected to notable figures associated with great size or strength.
Significance
Raphah's significance in the biblical narrative stems from his connection to Ishbi-benob, a figure described as a giant and an adversary to David's warriors. The mention of his name, sometimes translated as "the giant," links him to the broader biblical theme of giants or mighty men encountered by Israel. His presence in the genealogy highlights the ongoing conflict between God's people and formidable enemies, underscoring God's sovereignty and the faithfulness of His servants.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- רָפָה
- Transliteration
- rafah
- Meaning
- [poss.] one healed
- Greek
- Ραφα
- Reference
- 2SA 21:16
- Strong's
- H7498
Notes
some translations have "the giant" instead of "Raphah"
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Raphah in the Bible?
Raphah is a male biblical figure identified primarily as the father of Ishbi-benob, mentioned in 2 Samuel 21:16. Some Bible translations render his name as "the giant," indicating a possible association with the Rephaim, a group of giants noted in Scripture. Beyond this, little else is directly recorded about his tribe or broader background.
What does the name Raphah mean?
The name Raphah means “Raphu, relaxation; physic; comfort” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.