or בַּצְלִית; from the same as בֶּצֶלxlit bᵉtsel corrected to betsel; a peeling; Batsluth or Batslith, an Israelite; Bazlith, Bazluth.
Transliteration:Batslûwth
Pronunciation:bats-looth'
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1213}}`, transliterated as *Batslûwth* (and also appearing as *Batslîyth*), functions exclusively as a proper noun within the biblical text. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the same root as `{{H1211}}` (*betsel*), meaning "onion," and by extension, "a peeling." While the etymological root suggests a process of uncovering, stripping away, or revealing, in its biblical usage, `{{H1213}}` refers specifically to an individual or a family, rather than a common noun describing an action or object. Therefore, its semantic range is limited to its identity as a personal name, Bazlith or Bazluth, with the underlying etymology offering a potential, though not explicitly stated, layer of meaning concerning the individual's character or circumstances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H1213}}` appears in two distinct but parallel passages within the post-exilic historical books, identifying a family or group of Nethinim, temple servants, who returned from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem.
* In [[Ezra 2:52]], the name is transliterated as "Bazlith" (בַּצְלִית), listed among the "children of the Nethinim." The Nethinim were a class of temple servants, often non-Israelite in origin, who performed the more menial tasks associated with the sanctuary. Their inclusion in this census highlights the comprehensive nature of the return from exile, encompassing all who were part of the temple community.
* Similarly, in [[Nehemiah 7:54]], the name appears as "Bazluth" (בַּצְלוּת), again in the list of Nethinim who returned. Nehemiah's list is largely a duplicate of Ezra's, serving to confirm the roster of those who participated in the rebuilding efforts. The slight variation in transliteration (Bazlith vs. Bazluth) reflects the two forms given in the lemma and is common for Hebrew proper names.
The placement of this name within the detailed genealogies and lists of returnees underscores the meticulous record-keeping and the importance of identity and lineage during the restoration period. These individuals, though not priests or Levites, were vital to the functioning of the temple and the re-establishment of the community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relation to `{{H1213}}` is `{{H1211}}` (*betsel*), meaning "onion." This connection to a "peeling" or an "onion" is purely etymological and does not suggest a direct conceptual link in the biblical narrative itself. However, the study of proper names in the Hebrew Bible often reveals subtle connections between a name's meaning and the individual's life or role. The concept of "peeling" could metaphorically imply a process of revelation, purification, or the shedding of old layers, though this remains interpretive.
More broadly, `{{H1213}}` is related to the larger biblical concept of proper names carrying significance. Hebrew names were often descriptive, prophetic, or commemorative (e.g., Isaac, "he laughs"; Jacob, "supplanter"). While the specific meaning of Bazlith/Bazluth is not expounded upon in the text, its inclusion in the lists of returnees connects it to the themes of:
* **Return from Exile:** The overarching narrative of Ezra-Nehemiah.
* **Community Restoration:** The rebuilding of the Israelite nation and its religious life.
* **Temple Service:** The vital role of all who served in the sanctuary, regardless of their specific duties.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H1213}}` lies not in the word itself as a theological concept, but in the person or family it represents and their participation in God's redemptive plan. The inclusion of Bazlith/Bazluth among the Nethinim in the lists of returnees from exile is profoundly significant for several reasons:
1. **God's Meticulous Care for All His People:** The detailed enumeration of every family, including those in humble service like the Nethinim, demonstrates God's comprehensive and meticulous care for all members of His covenant community. No one is overlooked in His plan for restoration.
2. **The Importance of Service:** The Nethinim, though often considered of lower status, were indispensable for the proper functioning of the temple. Their return and dedication to service underscore the biblical principle that all forms of faithful service, no matter how seemingly humble, are valuable and necessary in God's kingdom.
3. **Restoration and Renewal:** The presence of Bazlith/Bazluth among those returning symbolizes the broader theme of God's faithfulness in gathering His scattered people and renewing His covenant with them. The process of "peeling" (from the name's etymology) could subtly allude to the stripping away of the old, idolatrous ways during exile, preparing the community for a purified new beginning in the land.
### Summary
`{{H1213}}` (Batslûwth/Batslîyth), transliterated as Bazlith or Bazluth, is a proper noun found exclusively in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Etymologically linked to "peeling" or "onion" (`{{H1211}}`), it identifies a family of Nethinim, temple servants, who were among those faithfully returning to Jerusalem from Babylonian exile. Its significance is rooted in its role within the biblical narrative of post-exilic restoration. The inclusion of Bazlith/Bazluth in the meticulous lists of returnees underscores God's comprehensive care for all His people, the vital importance of every individual's service in His kingdom, and the overarching theme of divine faithfulness in restoring His covenant community.
TRV