### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Bᵉnâyâh**, represented by `{{H1141}}`, means **Jah has built**. It is the name given to twelve Israelites in the scriptures. The name appears **42 times** across **41 unique verses**, with its most notable bearer being a key military commander and loyalist to King David and King Solomon.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The most prominent individual named Benaiah is the son of Jehoiada `{{H3077}}`, a valiant man `{{H2428}}` from Kabzeel `{{H6909}}`. He is celebrated for his many acts `{{H6467}}`, including slaying two lionlike men `{{H739}}` of Moab and killing a lion `{{H738}}` in a pit `{{H953}}` on a snowy day ([[2 Samuel 23:20]], [[1 Chronicles 11:22]]). He commanded King David's guard, the Cherethites `{{H3774}}` and Pelethites `{{H6432}}` [[2 Samuel 8:18]]. His unwavering loyalty was crucial during Adonijah's attempt to seize the throne, as he stood with Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet to ensure Solomon's succession [[1 Kings 1:8]]. Under King Solomon, Benaiah executed the king's judgments and was appointed over the entire host [[1 Kings 2:35]]. Other individuals named Benaiah include a priest who blew trumpets before the ark [[1 Chronicles 15:24]], several Levites involved in worship [[1 Chronicles 15:18]], and several men who had to put away foreign wives after the exile ([[Ezra 10:25]], [[Ezra 10:30]], [[Ezra 10:35]], [[Ezra 10:43]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles and identity of those named Benaiah:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is fundamental to identifying Benaiah, most often as "the **son** of Jehoiada" [[2 Samuel 8:18]]. As a name that means "Jah has built," its frequent connection to "son" highlights the theme of building a family name and lineage.
* `{{H3077}}` **Yᵉhôwyâdâʻ** (Jehoiada): As the father of the most famous Benaiah, his name means "Jehovah-known." This paternal link establishes the heritage of the great warrior who served David and Solomon [[1 Kings 1:8]].
* `{{H1368}}` **gibbôwr** (mighty man): This term defines the status of Benaiah, who was a mighty `{{H1368}}` warrior among King David's elite soldiers [[1 Chronicles 27:6]]. It signifies his power, valor, and strength.
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest, chief ruler): The name Benaiah is associated with both martial and priestly roles. One Benaiah was a "chief **priest**" who also served as a military captain [[1 Chronicles 27:5]], while another was a **priest** who sounded the trumpet before the ark [[1 Chronicles 15:24]].
### Theological Significance
The name Benaiah is connected to several significant biblical themes:
* **Unwavering Loyalty:** Benaiah son of Jehoiada exemplifies faithfulness to God's chosen king. He stood firm with David and Solomon against Adonijah's rebellion [[1 Kings 1:8]] and was trusted to carry out the king's commands, affirming his allegiance with "Amen" [[1 Kings 1:36]].
* **Execution of Divine Judgment:** Benaiah acted as the instrument of King Solomon's justice, executing those who defied the throne, including Adonijah and Joab ([[1 Kings 2:25]], [[1 Kings 2:34]]). This role solidified the establishment of Solomon's kingdom `{{H4467}}` as divinely appointed [[1 Kings 2:46]].
* **Valorous Service:** The name is synonymous with courage and strength in service to the kingdom. The accounts of Benaiah's heroic feats underscore a divinely-given might used to defend and establish Israel ([[2 Samuel 23:20]], [[1 Chronicles 11:22]]).
* **Worship and Repentance:** Beyond the battlefield, men named Benaiah served in worship as priests and Levites, ministering before the ark with trumpets `{{H2689}}` and psalteries `{{H5035}}` ([[1 Chronicles 15:20]], [[1 Chronicles 16:6]]). In a different context, several Benaiahs are listed among those who repented by putting away foreign wives, demonstrating the importance of covenant purity [[Ezra 10:30]].
### Summary
In summary, the name `{{H1141}}` **Bᵉnâyâh**, meaning "Jah has built," is worn by men who were instrumental in building and preserving the kingdom of Israel. While most famously associated with a valiant warrior whose loyalty and strength were foundational to Solomon's reign, the name also represents the importance of priestly service, worship, and the need for covenant faithfulness. The various individuals named Benaiah collectively illustrate the diverse ways one can serve God and His anointed king, whether through military might, priestly devotion, or humble repentance.
TRV