### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Chăgâbâʼ**, represented by `{{H2286}}`, is a proper name identifying one of the Nethinim. Also appearing as **Chăgâbâh**, the name is derived from the feminine form of a word for **locust**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, in both instances identifying the patriarch of a family.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2286}}` is found exclusively within two parallel genealogical lists that record the families who returned from the Babylonian exile. The name appears as **Hagaba** in Nehemiah and **Hagabah** in Ezra. Both passages refer to "the children of **Hagaba**" or "the children of **Hagabah**," identifying a specific family line among the Nethinim who returned to Judah ([[Nehemiah 7:48]]; [[Ezra 2:45]]). This context places **Chăgâbâʼ** as the ancestor of a family group dedicated to temple service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verses where `{{H2286}}` appears connect it to several other names and terms crucial for understanding these genealogical records:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word, used in the phrase "the children of," is foundational to both lists, establishing the lineage of the families returning from exile, including that of **Hagaba** and **Hagabah** ([[Nehemiah 7:48]]; [[Ezra 2:45]]).
* `{{H3838}}` **Lᵉbânâʼ** (Lebana or Lebanah, one of the Nethinim): The children of **Lebana** or **Lebanah** are listed immediately before the children of **Hagaba**, suggesting a close association between these two families of Nethinim ([[Nehemiah 7:48]]; [[Ezra 2:45]]).
* `{{H8014}}` **Salmay** (clothed; Salmai, an Israelite): In the list found in Nehemiah, the children of **Shalmai** are recorded directly after the descendants of **Hagaba** [[Nehemiah 7:48]].
* `{{H6126}}` **ʻAqqûwb** (insidious; Akkub, the name of five Israelites): The Ezra account lists the children of **Akkub** immediately following the children of **Hagabah** [[Ezra 2:45]].
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of `{{H2286}}` in Scripture, while limited, carries historical and communal significance.
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The careful recording of the "children of **Hagaba**" highlights the importance of preserving family lineage and identity, especially for the community being re-established in Jerusalem after the exile.
* **The Nethinim's Role:** As the head of a family of Nethinim, **Hagaba** represents a group whose service was integral to the function of the temple. Their return was a necessary step in restoring the full practice of worship in Judah.
* **Community Structure:** The name's appearance within a detailed census illustrates that the restored nation was built upon specific, accountable family units. These lists provide a historical anchor, documenting the people who formed the foundation of the post-exilic community.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2286}}` is more than just a name derived from the word for locust; it is a historical marker. Occurring only in the post-exilic census records of Ezra and Nehemiah, it identifies **Hagaba** or **Hagabah** as the progenitor of a family of Nethinim. Its presence underscores the biblical emphasis on historical accuracy, genealogical identity, and the collective effort of named families in the restoration of Israel.
TRV