The Hebrew name Binnûwy, represented by H1131, means built up. It appears 7 times in 7 unique verses. The name is used to identify several individuals in the post-exilic period, particularly those involved in the rebuilding and rededication of Jerusalem and its community.
In the biblical narrative, H1131 identifies several Israelites during the return from exile. The name appears in connection with the Levites who served in significant roles. For instance, Binnui is listed among the Levites who oversaw the thanksgiving Nehemiah 12:8, and Noadiah, son of Binnui, was a Levite entrusted with weighing the temple treasures Ezra 8:33. Another individual named Binnui is recorded as repairing a section of Jerusalem's wall Nehemiah 3:24. The name also appears in genealogies, with the "children of Binnui" numbering 648 among those who returned from captivity Nehemiah 7:15.
Several related words provide context for the people named Binnui:
- H1121 bên (a son): Sharing a root with Binnui, this word signifies "a son (as a builder of the family name)." The term is fundamental to establishing lineage and generational responsibility throughout scripture, as seen in the command to teach God's law to "thy sons, and thy sons' sons" Deuteronomy 4:9.
- H3881 Lêvîyîy (a Levite): This term identifies a descendant of Levi. Many of the individuals named Binnui were Levites, who held special responsibilities in worship and community life, such as teaching the people and leading them in blessing the Lord (Nehemiah 8:9, Nehemiah 9:5).
The significance of H1131 is seen in the roles of the men who carried the name.
- Restoration of the Community: The name Binnui, meaning "built up," is thematically linked to the work of rebuilding Jerusalem after the exile. An individual named Binnui physically repaired a section of the city wall, symbolizing the restoration of God's people Nehemiah 3:24.
- Dedicated Service: The name is closely associated with the Levites, who were central to the spiritual life of the restored community. Individuals named Binnui participated in leading worship and binding themselves to the covenant, demonstrating the importance of faithful service to God (Nehemiah 10:9, Nehemiah 12:8).
- Genealogical Purity: The presence of men named Binnui in the lists of those who had to separate from foreign wives underscores the post-exilic emphasis on covenant purity as a foundation for the renewed nation (Ezra 10:30, Ezra 10:38).
In summary, H1131 is more than a personal name. It is representative of the generation tasked with the post-exilic restoration of Israel. Through the various individuals named Binnui, the name is connected to themes of physical rebuilding, Levitical service, and covenant renewal. It illustrates how a name meaning "built up" was borne by men actively involved in building up the people and city of God.
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