### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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.
TRV