The Hebrew name Batslûwth, represented by H1213, means a peeling. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This word is used as a proper name for an Israelite, with the spellings Bazluth and Bazlith, identifying the head of a family returning from exile.
In the biblical narrative, H1213 is used exclusively within genealogical lists that record the families who returned to Judah after the Babylonian captivity. It appears in parallel accounts in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. In both cases, the "children of Bazluth" or "children of Bazlith" are named as part of the community, highlighting the importance of tracing lineage and identity for the restored nation (Ezra 2:52, Nehemiah 7:54).
Several related words appear in the immediate context of H1213, providing a fuller picture of the genealogical lists:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word, translated as "children," precedes the name in both occurrences, establishing the list as a record of descendants (Ezra 2:52, Nehemiah 7:54). It signifies the continuation of the family name.
- H4240 Mᵉchîydâʼ (junction): The name of another family head, whose children are listed immediately after those of Bazluth, showing the structured nature of the census (Ezra 2:52, Nehemiah 7:54).
- H2797 Charshâʼ (magician): This name identifies another family listed alongside the descendants of Bazluth and Mehida, completing the group in these specific verses (Ezra 2:52, Nehemiah 7:54).
While not a theological term, the inclusion of H1213 carries historical and covenantal significance.
- Genealogical Preservation: The meticulous listing of the family of Bazluth demonstrates the importance of preserving family lines and heritage, particularly for the community re-establishing itself in the promised land.
- Community Restoration: Being named in the census of returnees affirms the family's place within the restored covenant community of Israel after the exile.
- Historical Marker: The name serves as a historical anchor, identifying a specific Israelite whose descendants were part of a foundational moment in the nation's post-exilic history.
In summary, H1213 is a proper name whose significance is derived entirely from its context. Appearing as Bazluth and Bazlith, it identifies an ancestral head whose descendants are recorded in the important post-exilic censuses of Ezra and Nehemiah. Its presence underscores the biblical emphasis on genealogy as a means of confirming identity and membership within the people of Israel during a critical period of restoration.
TRV