### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Giddêl**, represented by `{{H1435}}`, is defined as **stout**. It is used as a proper name, appearing **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The name **Giddêl** is associated with two distinct groups mentioned in scripture: one of the Nethinim, and one of 'Solomon's servants'.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1435}}` appears exclusively in genealogical lists documenting the families who returned from exile. The name is found in parallel accounts in both Ezra and Nehemiah. In one context, the "children{H1121} of **Giddel**{H1435}" are listed among the Nethinim ([[Ezra 2:47]]; [[Nehemiah 7:49]]). In a separate listing, the "children{H1121} of **Giddel**{H1435}" are identified among the descendants of 'Solomon's servants' ([[Ezra 2:56]]; [[Nehemiah 7:58]]). In all instances, **Giddêl** serves as a patriarchal head, identifying a specific family line.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context in which **Giddêl** is found:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is integral to every mention of Giddel, appearing in the phrase "the children of Giddel" ([[Ezra 2:47]]; [[Nehemiah 7:49]]). It establishes Giddel as the ancestor of a returning family group and is fundamental to biblical genealogy, used to identify descendants like the "sons{H1121} of Jacob" [[Malachi 3:6]].
* `{{H1515}}` **Gachar** (lurker; Gahar, one of the Nethinim): The descendants of Gahar are listed directly after the children of Giddel in the lists of the Nethinim ([[Ezra 2:47]]; [[Nehemiah 7:49]]), placing them in the same group of temple servants.
* `{{H1874}}` **Darqôwn** (Darkon, one of 'Solomon's servants'): The children of Darkon are mentioned alongside the children of Giddel in the lists of 'Solomon's servants' ([[Ezra 2:56]]; [[Nehemiah 7:58]]), indicating a parallel familial identity within this specific group.
### Theological Significance
While **Giddêl** is a proper name and not a theological term, its inclusion in scripture carries significance:
* **Covenant Faithfulness:** The meticulous listing of families, including the descendants of **Giddêl**, underscores God's faithfulness in preserving the lineage of Israel through the period of exile. Each named family is a testament to the nation's continuity.
* **Inclusion in Restoration:** Being named in the records of Ezra and Nehemiah signifies a family's legitimate place in the restored community of Jerusalem. The "children of **Giddel**" are formally recognized as part of the returned people of God ([[Ezra 2:47]], 56).
* **Importance of Every Individual:** The detailed nature of these genealogies highlights the value placed on each family line, whether they were priests, Levites, Nethinim, or 'Solomon's servants'. The inclusion of **Giddêl** demonstrates that even non-priestly families were integral to the rebuilt nation.
### Summary
In summary, **Giddêl** `{{H1435}}` is the name of a patriarch whose descendants are documented in the post-exilic lists of Ezra and Nehemiah. Though the name itself means **stout**, its significance comes from its context. The "children of **Giddel**" are identified as belonging to both the Nethinim and the 'servants of Solomon,' marking their role in the restored community. The name's inclusion serves as a permanent record of a family's place in God's preserved people, illustrating how genealogical records function to affirm covenant identity and belonging.
TRV