The Hebrew word Châgâb, represented by H2285, is the name of a person. It appears 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name identifies Hagab as one of the Nethinim, and his descendants are recorded in the genealogical lists following the Babylonian exile.
The sole appearance of H2285 is in a genealogical record. In the book of Ezra, the name is used to identify a family head whose descendants returned to Jerusalem. The verse simply lists "The children of Hagab," placing them alongside other families as part of the restored community of Israel Ezra 2:46.
Several related words appear in the same verse, establishing a context of lineage and community:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is used three times in the verse to establish the lineage of the families mentioned, translating as "the children of" and connecting the descendants to their progenitors like Hagab Ezra 2:46.
- H8073 Shamlay (Shamlai, one of the Nethinim): The descendants of Shalmai are listed immediately after the children of Hagab, indicating a parallel family line also counted among the returnees Ezra 2:46.
- H2605 Chânân (favor; Chanan, the name of seven Israelites): The children of Hanan are listed in the same sequence, further populating the census of families returning to their land Ezra 2:46.
The significance of H2285 is tied to its role in the biblical record of Israel's restoration.
- Genealogical Preservation: The mention of Hagab is part of a meticulous record-keeping effort. This highlights the importance of preserving family lines and heritage for the community re-establishing itself after the exile Ezra 2:46.
- Inclusion among the Nethinim: The base definition identifies Hagab as "one of the Nethinim." The inclusion of his family in this official census affirms the recognized place of his descendants within the structure of the post-exilic community.
In summary, H2285 is a proper name, not a common noun, in its biblical context. Its single mention in scripture is not incidental but serves a crucial function in the genealogical lists of Ezra. The name Hagab represents one of the foundational families of the Nethinim whose lineage was officially recorded as part of the return from exile, underscoring the value placed on heritage and community structure during a pivotal moment in Israel's history.
TRV