### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **'Ăbîy**, represented by `{{H21}}`, is defined as "fatherly" and refers to "Abi, Hezekiah's mother." It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. This term, though a proper name, carries the intrinsic meaning of its root, suggesting a paternal quality or connection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical occurrence, `{{H21}}` identifies a significant figure in royal lineage. It is used to name the mother of King Hezekiah, who began to reign when he was twenty `{{H6242}}` and five `{{H2568}}` years `{{H8141}}` old `{{H1121}}`, and reigned `{{H4427}}` for twenty `{{H6242}}` and nine `{{H8672}}` years `{{H8141}}` in Jerusalem `{{H3389}}`. The verse explicitly states: "His mother's `{{H517}}` name `{{H8034}}` also was Abi `{{H21}}`, the daughter `{{H1323}}` of Zachariah `{{H2148}}`" [[2 Kings 18:2]]. This usage establishes `{{H21}}` within the royal genealogy of Judah, linking her to a pivotal period in the kingdom's history.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for the familial and historical significance of `{{H21}}`:
* `{{H517}}` **'êm** (mother): This foundational term denotes a female parent, as seen in the command "Honour `{{H3513}}` thy father `{{H1}}` and thy mother `{{H517}}`" [[Exodus 20:12]], directly defining Abi's role.
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (daughter): As the direct counterpart to "son," this word signifies a female offspring, emphasizing Abi's identity as "the daughter `{{H1323}}` of Zachariah `{{H2148}}`" [[Zechariah 9:9]].
* `{{H2148}}` **Zᵉkaryâh** (Zachariah): This proper name, meaning "Jah has remembered," is identified as the father of Abi, establishing her paternal lineage. For instance, "And he sought `{{H1875}}` God `{{H430}}` in the days `{{H3117}}` of Zechariah `{{H2148}}`" [[2 Chronicles 26:5]].
* `{{H8034}}` **shêm** (name): This term refers to an appellation, emphasizing individuality or character, as in "The name `{{H8034}}` of the LORD `{{H3068}}` is a strong `{{H5797}}` tower `{{H4026}}`" [[Proverbs 18:10]], and is used to state Abi's own name.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H21}}` primarily stems from its inherent meaning and its connection to the royal house.
* **Implied Character:** Although a female name, "Abi" means "fatherly," which could imply a nurturing or foundational role within her family or a connection to her paternal heritage, Zachariah.
* **Royal Connection:** As the mother of King Hezekiah, `{{H21}}` is directly linked to the Davidic monarchy and the governance of Judah. Her son reigned `{{H4427}}` in Jerusalem `{{H3389}}` for a significant period.
* **Historical Marker:** Her mention serves as a precise genealogical and historical detail within the biblical record, anchoring the narrative of Hezekiah's reign.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H21}}` **'Ăbîy** is a singular and significant proper name in the biblical text. While appearing only once, its meaning "fatherly" and its direct association as the mother of King Hezekiah underscore its role in outlining royal lineage and providing a key historical marker for one of Judah's prominent kings.
TRV