### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bunnîy**, represented by `{{H1138}}`, means **built**. It is the name of an Israelite, appearing **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The name comes from a root word meaning to build, suggesting a foundational or constructive role.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Bunnîy** `{{H1138}}` is identified as a Levite involved in the spiritual life of Israel after the exile. He is listed among a group of Levites, including Jeshua `{{H3442}}` and Bani `{{H1137}}`, who stood upon the stairs `{{H4608}}` and led the people in a public cry to God with a loud `{{H1419}}` voice `{{H6963}}` [[Nehemiah 9:4]]. His name also appears in a list with other Israelites such as Azgad `{{H5803}}` and Bebai `{{H893}}` [[Nehemiah 10:15]]. Finally, he is recorded in a genealogy as an ancestor of Shemaiah `{{H8098}}`, a Levite `{{H3881}}` [[Nehemiah 11:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the role and identity of **Bunnîy**:
* `{{H1137}}` **Bânîy** (built): This is the name of another Israelite, who is listed alongside **Bunnîy** in the group of Levites leading worship, highlighting the collective nature of their service [[Nehemiah 9:4]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (Levite): This term defines the tribe and spiritual office to which **Bunnîy** belonged. He is explicitly identified as one of the Levites `{{H3881}}` in both his active role and his genealogy ([[Nehemiah 9:4]], [[Nehemiah 11:15]]).
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): Essential for understanding generational continuity, this word establishes **Bunnîy**'s place as an ancestor within the Levitical lineage, connecting him to future generations of service [[Nehemiah 11:15]].
### Theological Significance
The brief mentions of **Bunnîy** carry theological weight by contributing to larger scriptural themes.
* **Corporate Worship:** **Bunnîy**'s participation in the public cry to the LORD `{{H3068}}` their God `{{H430}}` demonstrates the importance of unified, led worship. His role as a Levite shows the ordained structure for guiding the community in approaching God [[Nehemiah 9:4]].
* **Community Commemoration:** The inclusion of his name in official records underscores the value of each individual within the restored community of Israel. These lists serve as a memorial to those who were part of the nation's life and history [[Nehemiah 10:15]].
* **Levitical Heritage:** The documentation of **Bunnîy**'s lineage is significant for preserving the heritage and legitimacy of the Levites. It affirms God's continued work through specific family lines dedicated to His service [[Nehemiah 11:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **Bunnîy** `{{H1138}}` is more than just a name in a list. As a Levite whose name means **built**, he is portrayed as a figure involved in building up the spiritual life of his people through public worship and in continuing the Levitical line through his descendants. His appearances in Nehemiah, though few, highlight the importance of individual roles in corporate worship and the preservation of sacred heritage.
TRV