The Hebrew name Zᵉbîynâʼ, represented by H2081, means gainfulness. It is derived from an unused root word related to the concept of purchasing. This name appears only 1 time in 1 verse in the entire Bible, identifying a specific Israelite.
The single biblical mention of H2081 occurs in a genealogical list within the book of Ezra. Zebina is named as one of the "sons of Nebo" Ezra 10:43. He is listed alongside other Israelites including Jeiel, Mattithiah, Zabad, Jadau, Joel, and Benaiah during the time of the post-exilic community's restoration.
The context of Zebina's name connects him to several other individuals and groups:
- H1121 bên: This word for a son is used to establish Zebina's lineage as one of the "sons of Nebo," connecting him to a larger family or clan group Ezra 10:43.
- H5015 Nᵉbôw: This name for Nebo, which can refer to a place in Palestine, identifies the group to which Zebina belonged Ezra 10:43.
- H2066 Zâbâd: Meaning giver, this is the name of another Israelite, Zabad, who is listed immediately before Zebina in the same verse Ezra 10:43.
- H3035 Yiddôw: Meaning praised, this is the name of Iddo (textual variant Jadau), another Israelite listed in the same group as Zebina Ezra 10:43.
The significance of H2081 is found entirely in its inclusion within the biblical record.
- Historical Documentation: The name's presence demonstrates the meticulous record-keeping of the Israelites, preserving individual identities within the community during the era of Ezra.
- Communal Identity: Zebina is not mentioned for an individual act but as a member of a collective, the "sons of Nebo" Ezra 10:43. His identity in the scriptural account is tied to this specific group.
- Name Meaning: The name itself, gainfulness, reflects the Hebrew custom of giving names with specific, often aspirational, meanings.
In summary, H2081 is a personal name, Zᵉbîynâʼ, that appears once in scripture. Its importance lies not in a broader narrative or theological theme, but in its role as a historical marker. The name Zebina is preserved as part of a list of the "sons of Nebo" in Ezra, contributing a small but specific detail to the larger account of the Israelite people.
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