### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Vashnîy**, represented by `{{H2059}}`, is defined as "weak" and is the name of an Israelite. The definition notes it is probably from יִשְׁמְרַי. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, making it a highly specific genealogical reference.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H2059}}` is in a list of the descendants of Levi found in 1 Chronicles. The verse states, "And the sons of Samuel; the firstborn Vashni, and Abiah" [[1 Chronicles 6:28]]. In this context, **Vashnîy** is explicitly identified as the firstborn son of the prophet Samuel, a major figure in Israel's history. His mention serves to establish the lineage of Samuel within the Kohathite branch of the Levites.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of **Vashnîy** is enriched by the words surrounding his name in the passage:
* `{{H8050}}` **Shᵉmûwʼêl** (Samuel): Vashni's father, whose name means "heard of God." As a prophet and judge, Samuel was pivotal in guiding Israel and anointing its first kings [[1 Samuel 16:1]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word, meaning "a son," establishes Vashni's direct relationship to Samuel. The term is central to biblical genealogies and the concept of generational continuity [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
* `{{H1060}}` **bᵉkôwr** (firstborn): This term describes Vashni's status. The firstborn held a special position of honor and inheritance and was considered sanctified to the Lord [[Exodus 13:2]].
* `{{H29}}` **ʼĂbîyâh** (Abiah): Listed as Vashni's brother, his name means "father (i.e. worshipper) of Jah." He is mentioned alongside Vashni, completing the record of Samuel's sons in this verse [[1 Chronicles 6:28]].
### Theological Significance
While the individual **Vashnîy** carries no direct theological weight, his mention highlights several important themes:
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The inclusion of **Vashnîy** in the lineage of the prophet **Samuel** `{{H8050}}` underscores the importance of maintaining precise ancestral records, particularly for the priestly and Levitical lines.
* **The Status of the Firstborn:** Vashni is identified as the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}`, a title with significant legal and spiritual implications in Israel. God claimed all firstborn as His own [[Exodus 13:2]] and used the term to describe His special relationship with Israel [[Jeremiah 31:9]].
* **The Family of a Prophet:** Being a **son** `{{H1121}}` of Samuel places Vashni within a key family in the history of redemption. The actions and lineage of God's chosen leaders, like Samuel, were carefully chronicled.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2059}}` **Vashnîy** is a name that appears once in scripture for a single purpose: to identify the firstborn son of Samuel in a genealogy. While the person Vashni is obscure, his presence in the text reinforces the biblical emphasis on lineage, the cultural and religious significance of the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}`, and the recorded heritage of foundational figures like **Samuel** `{{H8050}}`.
TRV