Hebrew · Strong's H7223
רִאשׁוֹן
(ree-SHOHN)
adjective
This term refers to something that is first in time, space, or rank, often implying priority or origin.
The Hebrew adjective רִאשׁוֹן (rishon) broadly describes that which is "first." This can denote temporal precedence, as in the "first day" (Exodus 40:2, Ezra 7:9), marking the beginning of a period or event. It also frequently indicates ordinal position, such as the "firstborn" (Genesis 25:25) or the "first king" in a line of rulers (Daniel 8:21). Beyond mere sequence, רִאשׁוֹן can carry a sense of priority or importance, sometimes referring to something foundational or originating. The concept of "first" can also extend to a previous state or earlier period, contrasting with what comes after. For example, it distinguishes "former" prophets or "former" things from later ones (Zechariah 7:7, Haggai 2:9). The term is vital for understanding chronological markers, familial ordering, and historical periods within the Old Testament narrative. Its use helps to establish sequence and highlight significant beginnings, from creation to the establishment of covenants and kingdoms.
Common English renderings
- first
- former
- old
- beginning
- chief
- ancestor
Key verses
"On the first day of the first month shalt thou rear up the tabernacle of the tent of meeting."
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"And the rough he-goat is the king of Greece: and the great horn that is between his eyes is the first king."
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"Should ye not hear the words which Jehovah cried by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited and in prosperity, and the cities thereof round about her, and the South and the lowland were inhabited?"
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"For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babylon; and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him."
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"In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at even, is Jehovah’s passover."
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"And the first came forth red, all over like a hairy garment; and they called his name Esau."
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