### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼIddôw**, represented by `{{H112}}`, is an Israelite proper name of uncertain derivation. It appears 2 times within a single verse of scripture, making its context specific yet significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H112}}` is in Ezra's account of gathering the exiles to return to Jerusalem. **ʼIddôw** is identified as "the chief" at a place called Casiphia. He is approached by Ezra's messengers who were sent with a specific command: to ask **ʼIddôw** and his brethren, the Nethinims, to provide ministers for the service of the house of God [[Ezra 8:17]]. This positions **ʼIddôw** as a key leader responsible for organizing and dispatching personnel essential for the restoration of Temple worship.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from this account clarify the role and context of **ʼIddôw**:
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (the head): This word identifies **ʼIddôw** as the **chief** or leader in his community, a person of rank and authority [[1 Chronicles 29:11]].
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (a brother): The reference to "his **brethren** the Nethinims" highlights a communal or vocational relationship, grouping **ʼIddôw** with those he leads [[Ezra 8:17]].
* `{{H5411}}` **Nâthîyn** (one given, i.e. the Nethinim, or Temple-servants): This specifies the group **ʼIddôw** was chief over. The **Nethinims** were dedicated Temple-servants, a vital part of the religious community [[1 Chronicles 9:2]].
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath** (to attend as a menial or worshipper): The request for **ministers** underscores the sacred duty **ʼIddôw** was asked to facilitate, which was to supply personnel for worship and service at the house of God [[Isaiah 61:6]].
* `{{H6680}}` **tsâvâh** (to constitute, enjoin; appoint... command): The messengers were explicitly sent with a command, indicating the official and authoritative nature of the mission to **ʼIddôw** [[Joshua 1:9]].
### Theological Significance
While mentioned only once, the narrative significance of `{{H112}}` is clear within the context of Israel's restoration.
* **Organized Leadership:** **ʼIddôw**'s position as "the chief" demonstrates that the returning exiles were not a scattered crowd but an organized community with recognized leaders in various locations responsible for specific functions [[Ezra 8:17]].
* **Restoration of Worship:** The mission to **ʼIddôw** was critical for the re-establishment of Temple service. His ability to provide ministers shows his pivotal role in restoring the formal worship of God in Jerusalem [[Ezra 8:17]].
* **Authority over Temple Personnel:** As the leader of the Nethinims at Casiphia, **ʼIddôw** had authority over a group specifically "given" to the service of the Temple, making him the necessary point of contact for Ezra's request [[Ezra 8:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H112}}` refers to **ʼIddôw**, an individual whose importance is defined by his singular, crucial action in the biblical narrative. Though his name is rare, his role as the chief who provides ministers for the house of God marks him as an instrumental figure in the rebuilding of Israel's religious life after the exile. His story illustrates the coordinated effort and established leadership required for this national and spiritual restoration.
TRV