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.
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.
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.
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.
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