### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bânîy**, represented by `{{H1137}}`, is a name derived from a root meaning **built**. It appears **15 times** across **14 unique verses** and is the name given to five different Israelites in the biblical record. The name itself signifies being established or constructed, a theme reflected in the roles these individuals play in Israel's history.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name **Bani** appears in several distinct historical contexts. One of King David's mighty men was **Bani** the Gadite [[2 Samuel 23:36]]. The name is also found in genealogical lists, identifying a descendant of Judah through Pharez [[1 Chronicles 9:4]] and an ancestor in a Levitical line [[1 Chronicles 6:46]]. In the post-exilic era, the "children of **Bani**" are listed as a family returning to Judah, numbering six hundred forty and two [[Ezra 2:10]]. Men named **Bani** were also prominent among the Levites during the time of Nehemiah, helping the people understand the Law [[Nehemiah 8:7]] and leading them in public worship and confession [[Nehemiah 9:4-5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are derived from the same root word for "build," highlighting concepts of family, structure, and establishment:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word, meaning son, is defined as a "builder of the family name." It is essential for tracing the lineage of individuals like **Bani** [[1 Chronicles 9:4]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (a house): Stemming from the same root, this word refers to a physical house or, figuratively, a family or household. A descendant of **Bani** was an overseer for the "business of the **house** of God" [[Nehemiah 11:22]].
* `{{H1131}}` **Binnûwy** (built up): A proper name with a nearly identical meaning to **Bani**. The two are mentioned together in a list of those who had taken foreign wives [[Ezra 10:38]].
* `{{H1138}}` **Bunnîy** (built): Another Israelite name from the same root, listed alongside **Bani** among the Levites who cried out to the Lord [[Nehemiah 9:4]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H1137}}` is tied to the identity and restoration of Israel.
* **Foundational Lineage:** As an ancestor in both Levitical and Judahite genealogies, the name **Bani** serves as a marker of heritage, underscoring the "built" nature of Israel's tribal structure ([[1 Chronicles 6:46]], [[1 Chronicles 9:4]]).
* **Post-Exilic Rebuilding:** The name is prominent in the accounts of Ezra and Nehemiah. The "children of **Bani**" formed a significant part of the returning community [[Ezra 2:10]], and Levites named **Bani** were instrumental in the spiritual renewal of the people [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
* **Covenant Commitment:** A chief named **Bani** was among those who sealed the covenant to follow God's law [[Nehemiah 10:14]]. Conversely, the sons of **Bani** are also listed among those who were held accountable for marrying foreign women, showing the importance of rebuilding the nation in holiness ([[Ezra 10:29]], 10:34).
### Summary
In summary, the name **Bani** `{{H1137}}` is more than an incidental label. Meaning "built," it is fittingly attached to individuals who served as foundational figures in their respective lineages and periods. From one of David's mighty men to the Levites who helped rebuild the nation's spiritual life after the exile, the name **Bani** consistently appears in contexts of establishing and restoring the people of Israel according to their covenant heritage.
TRV