### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Garmîy**, represented by `{{H1636}}`, is a descriptive term meaning **bony, i.e. strong; Garmite**. It appears just **1 time** in a single verse, where it is used as a patrial name, indicating an inhabitant of a place or a descendant of a particular line.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H1636}}` is within a genealogical record in 1 Chronicles. The passage lists the sons of the wife of Hodiah, identifying one as "the father of Keilah the **Garmite**" [[1 Chronicles 4:19]]. This usage establishes the term as a gentilic, a name denoting affiliation with a family or place, within a specific lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its only context help clarify its function:
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This word establishes the paternal link in the genealogy, identifying an individual as the "father of Keilah the Garmite" [[1 Chronicles 4:19]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This term is central to the verse, which outlines "the sons of his wife Hodiah," placing the Garmite within a specific lineage [[1 Chronicles 4:19]].
* `{{H7084}}` **Qᵉʻîylâh** (Keilah): Defined as a citadel or a place in Palestine, this name is directly associated with the Garmite, suggesting a geographical or clan-based origin [[1 Chronicles 4:19]].
* `{{H4602}}` **Maʻăkâthîy** (Maachathite): This term, meaning an inhabitant of Maakah, appears in the same verse as Garmite, highlighting the common use of patrial names to specify identity in these lists [[1 Chronicles 4:19]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H1636}}` itself does not carry broad theological weight, its function within genealogy is significant.
* **Genealogical Precision:** The use of specific identifiers like `{{H1636}}` demonstrates the meticulous care taken to record family lines. This precision underscores the importance of heritage and inheritance within the Israelite community, as seen in the command to teach future generations [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* **Covenantal Identity:** Genealogies are foundational to tracing the covenant promises made by God. Terms like Garmite, while seemingly minor, are part of the larger framework that connects individuals and families to the overarching story of God's relationship with His people, the "sons of Jacob" [[Malachi 3:6]].
* **Historical Record:** Patrial names like Garmite ground the biblical narrative in specific historical and geographical contexts. It connects a person not just to a father `{{H1}}` but also to a place, Keilah `{{H7084}}`, anchoring the lineage in a tangible reality.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1636}}` **Garmîy** is a word appearing only once that functions as a specific identifier within a biblical genealogy. While its base definition is "bony, i.e. strong," its primary role in scripture is as a patrial name, the "Garmite." Its significance lies not in complex theology but in its contribution to the careful and detailed preservation of lineage, which is a cornerstone of biblical history and covenantal identity.
TRV