from an unused root meaning to hide; lurker; Gachar, one of the Nethinim; Gahar.
Transliteration:Gachar
Pronunciation:gah'-khar
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H1515}}` (Gachar) is primarily a proper noun, identifying an individual and, by extension, a family line within the biblical text. Its etymology traces back to an "unused root" which conveys the meaning "to hide." From this root, the name itself is understood to mean "lurker" or "hider." While the root is not active in other Hebrew words, its semantic contribution to the name suggests a characteristic of concealment or being hidden. In the context of a personal name, it could imply a person who was secretive, or perhaps one who had been in hiding, or even one whose origins were obscure. However, its primary function in Scripture is as an identifier rather than a descriptive adjective.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H1515}}` (Gachar) appears in two key passages within the post-exilic historical books:
* [[Ezra 2:47]]: "The children of Gahar, the children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam, the children of Uzza, the children of Paseah, the children of Besai, the children of Asnah," where it is listed among the families of the Nethinim who returned with Zerubbabel from the Babylonian exile.
* [[Nehemiah 7:49]]: "The children of Gahar, the children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda, the children of Gazzam, the children of Uzza, the children of Paseah, the children of Besai, the children of Asnah," which is a parallel list in Nehemiah's census of those who returned.
In both instances, Gachar is identified as one of the "children of" families belonging to the Nethinim. The Nethinim (from `{{H5411}}`, meaning "given ones") were temple servants, often of non-Israelite origin, who performed menial tasks associated with the sanctuary. Their inclusion in these meticulously recorded lists underscores their importance to the functioning of the re-established temple worship and the overall restoration of the community in Judah. The specific mention of Gachar's family among them indicates their active participation in this crucial return and their commitment to the sacred service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most significant related concept is that of the **Nethinim** (`{{H5411}}`). These individuals and families, dedicated to temple service, played a vital, albeit often humble, role in the religious life of Israel, particularly during the Second Temple period. Their inclusion in the lists of returnees alongside priests, Levites, and other prominent families highlights the comprehensive nature of the restoration effort. The context of the **return from Babylonian exile** is also crucial, as `{{H1515}}` is found exclusively within these narratives (Ezra-Nehemiah). This period marks a significant theological and historical turning point for the Israelite people, emphasizing themes of divine faithfulness, restoration, and the re-establishment of covenantal life. While the root meaning "to hide" might suggest a connection to other Hebrew words denoting concealment, the "unused" nature of the root for `{{H1515}}` means there are no direct lexical cognates beyond the proper noun itself.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of Gachar and his family among the Nethinim carries several layers of theological significance. Firstly, it underscores God's meticulous care for His people and the detailed record-keeping of those who served Him, regardless of their social standing or the potentially obscure meaning of their names. Even those whose family name might suggest a past of being "hidden" or a "lurker" are brought into the light of God's redemptive plan and given a public role in His service.
Secondly, the presence of the Nethinim, including the family of Gachar, in the post-exilic community demonstrates the inclusivity of God's restoration. The Nethinim, often seen as a subordinate class, were essential for the functioning of the temple. Their return signifies that every part of the community, from the highest priest to the humblest servant, was necessary for the full re-establishment of worship and national identity. God values all forms of service within His kingdom.
Finally, the name "Gachar" itself, meaning "lurker" or "hider," when placed in the context of temple service, can be seen as a testimony to transformation. What might have been a name associated with marginality or obscurity becomes attached to a family dedicated to sacred, public duty. This subtly reflects God's ability to redeem and repurpose individuals and families for His glory, drawing them out of hiddenness into His service.
### Summary
`{{H1515}}` (Gachar) is a Hebrew proper noun, identifying a family line of Nethinim, or temple servants, who returned from Babylonian exile. Derived from an unused root meaning "to hide," the name itself signifies "lurker" or "hider." Its biblical occurrences are limited to the lists of returnees in [[Ezra 2:47]] and [[Nehemiah 7:49]]. The theological significance of Gachar's inclusion among the Nethinim highlights God's meticulous care for all who serve Him, the comprehensive and inclusive nature of His post-exilic restoration, and the divine capacity to transform individuals, drawing them from obscurity into vital roles within His kingdom.
TRV