רָעָה
To tend a flock; i.e. pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule ; by extension, to associate with (as a friend)
Reading a lexicon entry
What this page is: Each lexicon entry shows the original Hebrew or Greek word behind the English translation: its meaning, its range of use, and where it appears in Scripture.
Strong's number: The Strong's code (H- or G-) is the standard reference number for this word. It connects this entry to chapter and passage language tabs.
Canonical witness: The witness passages show where this word is used in context. Click any to open the study page for that passage.
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What does רָעָה (rō‘î) mean in the Bible?
רָעָה (rō‘î) is a Hebrew word meaning "to tend a flock; i.e. pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule ; by extension, to associate with (as a friend)". to tend a flock; i. The word evokes shepherd imagery, emphasizing guidance and care through speech. This term runs through the canonical themes of Covenant, Messiah, Revelation.
Meaning
Shepherd metaphor foundational to kingship and covenantal care; moves from literal pasturing to ruling to companionship.
to tend a flock; i.e. pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a friend) BDB: binding-house of the shepherds Usage: × break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, shearing house, shepherd, wander, waste.
Why This Word Matters
The word evokes shepherd imagery, emphasizing guidance and care through speech. Isaiah 44:24-28
It defines the Messiah’s rule as protective, nurturing, and covenantally faithful. Micah 5:1-5
It reinforces God’s covenant role as protector and leader of His people. Micah 7:14-17
Describes Cyrus as an instrument serving divine purpose. Proverbs 10:21
Grammatical Forms
How the stem changes the meaning of this verb across the biblical text.
Qal basic active stem — the word in its most common, direct sense 80×
Piel intensive active — emphasizes thoroughness or repeated action 1×
Hithpael reflexive or reciprocal — the subject acts on itself or mutually with others 1×
Canonical Themes
Biblical Occurrences
Each occurrence shows the passage reference, the original language term as it appears in that context, its transliteration, and the contextual sense.
Old Testament Witnesses
Showing 8 of 164 occurrences in the biblical text.
Appears In
Compound and idiomatic lexemes in which this word is a constituent. Follow a link to study the phrase and its other participating words.