### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Hēlí**, represented by `{{G2242}}`, is a proper name for an Israelite and is of Hebrew origin. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its sole purpose is to identify a specific individual within a genealogical record.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical appearance of `{{G2242}}` is in the lineage of Jesus recorded in [[Luke 3:23]]. In this context, **Hēlí** is named as the father of Joseph. The verse establishes this relationship as part of tracing the ancestry of Jesus, who was beginning his ministry at "about thirty years of age." The passage qualifies this lineage by noting that Jesus was the son of Joseph "as was supposed" `{{G3543}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context help clarify the significance of this genealogical entry:
* `{{G2424}}` **Iēsoûs** (Jesus): The central figure of the passage whose human ancestry is being documented. He is identified in other passages as "the way, the truth, and the life" [[John 14:6]].
* `{{G2501}}` **Iōsḗph** (Joseph): Named as the son of **Hēlí**. His role as Jesus's earthly father is a recurring point, with others asking, "Is not this Joseph's son?" [[Luke 4:22]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): This word defines the filial relationship between **Hēlí** and Joseph. The term is used broadly in scripture, most significantly to define Jesus as the "only begotten Son" of God [[John 3:16]].
* `{{G3543}}` **nomízō** (suppose, thing, be wont): A crucial qualifier in the verse, indicating that Joseph's fatherhood was what was "deemed or regarded" to be the case, rather than a biological fact [[Luke 3:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2242}}` is found entirely in its context within the lineage of Christ.
* **Establishing Human Lineage:** The inclusion of **Hēlí** is essential for anchoring Jesus Christ in a specific and traceable human family history, as recorded in [[Luke 3:23]].
* **Legal vs. Biological Fatherhood:** The mention of **Hēlí** as Joseph’s father occurs in a verse that immediately distinguishes Joseph's role as the "supposed" father. This points toward the theological truth of the virgin birth, a concept supported by passages explaining that Mary was "with child of the Holy Ghost" before she and Joseph came together [[Matthew 1:18]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** As an ancestor of Joseph, **Hēlí** is a link in the chain that connects Jesus to the house of David, since Joseph is identified as a "son of David" [[Matthew 1:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2242}}` **Hēlí** is not a term with broad conceptual meaning but the proper name of a specific man. Its importance comes from its singular, pivotal role in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. By being identified as the father of Joseph, **Hēlí** serves as a necessary link in the documented human ancestry of Jesus, underscoring the historical reality of the incarnation as presented in the gospel of Luke [[Luke 3:23]].
TRV