### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Ben-ʻAmmîy**, represented by `{{H1151}}`, translates to **son of my people**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in scripture. The term is not a common noun but a proper name for Ben-Ammi, a son of Lot, and serves as the origin for the name of his descendants.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1151}}` occurs within the narrative of Lot and his daughters. The scripture records that Lot's **younger** `{{H6810}}` daughter also **bare** `{{H3205}}` a **son** `{{H1121}}` and **called** `{{H7121}}` his **name** `{{H8034}}` **Benammi** `{{H1151}}`. The passage immediately clarifies his significance, stating he is "the **father** `{{H1}}` of the children of **Ammon** `{{H5983}}` unto this day" [[Genesis 19:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the naming and lineage of Ben-ʻAmmîy:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): The foundational word within the name itself, it establishes Ben-Ammi's role as an heir and "a builder of the family name" [[Genesis 19:38]].
* `{{H5983}}` **ʻAmmôwn** (Ammon): This word is inextricably linked to `{{H1151}}`, identifying Ben-Ammi as the progenitor of the Ammonites and their country [[Genesis 19:38]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; to beget): This root verb describes the act of his birth and is central to the establishment of his lineage [[Genesis 19:38]].
* `{{H6810}}` **tsâʻîyr** (young): This adjective specifies that it was Lot's younger daughter who was the mother of Ben-Ammi, distinguishing this birth from that of his half-brother [[Genesis 19:38]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1151}}` is concentrated in its role as a genealogical anchor.
* **Progenitor of a Nation:** The naming of **Ben-ʻAmmîy** is the foundational act that establishes the origin of the "children of **Ammon**" `{{H5983}}`, a people who feature prominently in later interactions with Israel [[Genesis 19:38]].
* **Etymological Significance:** The name itself, "son of my people," directly points to the circumstances of his conception and birth within Lot's immediate family line.
* **Narrative Origin:** The single verse where `{{H1151}}` is found provides the explicit origin story for the Ammonites, rooting their existence in the aftermath of Sodom's destruction and the actions of Lot's family.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1151}}` is a proper name whose significance far outweighs its frequency. Its singular use in the book of Genesis is pivotal, serving to name a specific individual, **Ben-ʻAmmîy**, and simultaneously establish him as the father of the entire Ammonite nation. The name and its context in [[Genesis 19:38]] are inseparable, providing a definitive starting point for the biblical history of the children of **Ammon** `{{H5983}}`.
TRV