from יָתַר; he has caused to remain; Hothir, an Israelite; Hothir.
Transliteration:Hôwthîyr
Pronunciation:ho-theer'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H1956}}` (Hôwthîyr) is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its meaning is derived from the Hiphil stem of the root `{{H3498}}` (yathar), which fundamentally means "to remain," "to be left over," or "to be in excess." In the Hiphil conjugation, the verb הוֹתִיר (hôthîr) translates as "he caused to remain," "he left over," or "he preserved." Thus, the name Hothir likely signifies "He has caused to remain" or "He has preserved," implying an act of divine preservation, survival, or perhaps even abundance and excellence (that which remains after all needs are met). The name itself is a statement of God's active role in sustaining or providing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Hothir, `{{H1956}}`, appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, both instances within the book of 1 Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 25:4]]: Hothir is listed as one of the fourteen sons of Heman, a prominent Levite musician. Heman, along with Asaph and Jeduthun, was appointed by King David to lead the temple musicians, "who prophesied with lyres, harps, and cymbals." This verse establishes Hothir's lineage and his connection to the organized worship life of Israel.
* [[1 Chronicles 25:21]]: This verse reiterates Hothir's position within the twenty-four divisions of musicians. He is assigned to the fourteenth lot, under the direction of his father Heman, indicating his specific role and responsibility in the structured temple service.
The context of these occurrences is the meticulous organization of the temple service under King David, particularly the detailed assignment of roles to the Levites. Hothir's inclusion among the musicians underscores the importance of music and worship in ancient Israelite faith and the careful planning involved in establishing the future temple liturgy. His presence in these genealogical and organizational lists highlights the continuity of service and the dedication of specific families to the sacred tasks.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H1956}}` is its root, `{{H3498}}` (yathar), which signifies "to remain, to be left over, to excel." This root gives rise to several significant concepts in biblical theology:
* **The Remnant (שְׁאָר - she'ar or יֶתֶר - yether):** Derivatives of `{{H3498}}`, such as יֶתֶר (yether, remainder, excellence) and שְׁאָר (she'ar, remnant), are frequently used to describe a surviving portion of Israel, often preserved by divine grace through judgment. While Hothir is a personal name from an earlier period, its etymological connection to "that which remains" echoes this profound theological concept of divine preservation.
* **Abundance and Surplus:** The root can also denote an excess or abundance, as in יִתְרוֹן (yithron, advantage, profit, gain), suggesting that what is "left over" is not merely survival but potentially a blessing or an advantage.
* **Continuity and Succession:** In the context of Hothir's role as a Levite musician, the name's meaning can also subtly point to the divine preservation of a lineage or a specific function (like temple service) across generations.
* **Worship and Service:** Given Hothir's specific role, related concepts include the Levites, temple service, music, and prophecy (as the musicians "prophesied"). These elements collectively define a life dedicated to God's praise and the maintenance of His sanctuary.
### Theological Significance
The name Hothir, meaning "He has caused to remain" or "He has preserved," carries significant theological weight, particularly when considered in its biblical context:
* **Divine Preservation:** The most direct theological implication is God's active role in preserving His people, His covenant, and His purposes. The name itself is a testimony to God's faithfulness in sustaining life, lineage, and spiritual heritage. It speaks of divine providence, ensuring that a "remainder" or a chosen line continues.
* **God's Sovereignty in Service:** Hothir's inclusion in the organized temple service underscores God's meticulous planning and sovereignty over worship. His name suggests that his very existence and his role are due to God's preserving hand, highlighting that all service to God is ultimately enabled and sustained by Him.
* **The Enduring Nature of Worship:** As a musician in the temple, Hothir represents the enduring nature of worship and the arts as a vital expression of faith. His name can be seen as a declaration that God preserves those dedicated to His praise and ensures the continuity of His worship.
* **Significance of Individual Identity:** Even seemingly minor figures in biblical genealogies and lists often bear names with profound meanings. Hothir's name suggests that his parents may have named him in thanksgiving for divine preservation or in hope for his enduring place in God's plan, perhaps after a period of difficulty or as a testament to God's ongoing faithfulness to their family.
### Summary
`{{H1956}}` (Hôwthîyr) is a personal name meaning "He has caused to remain" or "He has preserved," derived from the Hebrew root `{{H3498}}` (yathar). Hothir is identified in [[1 Chronicles 25:4]] and [[1 Chronicles 25:21]] as one of the fourteen sons of Heman, a prominent Levite musician appointed by King David for temple service. His role was within the organized divisions of temple worship, emphasizing the importance of music and structured service to God. The theological significance of his name points to God's divine preservation, His sovereignty over individual lives and sacred service, and the enduring nature of His covenant and worship. Hothir's name serves as a quiet testament to God's faithfulness in sustaining His people and their dedicated service across generations.
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