אֶזְבַּי

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word ʼEzbay, represented by H229, is the name of an Israelite. Its meaning is noted as "probably from אֵזוֹב; hyssop-like." According to usage statistics, this name is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical record.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H229 is in a genealogical list within the book of Chronicles. The verse states, "Hezro the Carmelite, Naarai the son of Ezbai" 1 Chronicles 11:37. In this context, the name serves to identify the father of a man named Naarai. Ezbai's mention is purely for the purpose of establishing this paternal lineage.

Related Words & Concepts

Several words are directly associated with H229 in its only scriptural context:

• H1121 bên: This word for son is used to establish the relationship between Naarai and Ezbai 1 Chronicles 11:37. It is defined as "a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense."
• H2695 Chetsrôw: This is an Israelite name defined as "enclosure; Chetsro, an Israelite; Hezro, Hezrai." In the passage, an individual named Hezro is listed alongside Naarai, son of Ezbai 1 Chronicles 11:37.
• H3761 Karmᵉlîy: Meaning "a Karmelite or inhabitant of Karmel (the town); Carmelite," this term is used to describe Hezro's origin 1 Chronicles 11:37.

Theological Significance

The significance of H229 is rooted entirely in its function within biblical record-keeping rather than in any direct theological teaching.

• Genealogical Marker: The primary role of the name Ezbai is to preserve the lineage of his son, Naarai. This highlights the value placed on ancestry and identity within the biblical narrative.
• Historical Context: Its inclusion, though brief, helps to construct a more detailed historical record, linking individuals like Naarai to his father and placing them alongside others like Hezro the Carmelite 1 Chronicles 11:37.
• Name Meaning: The name's potential meaning, "hyssop-like," is recorded, but its specific symbolic application to the individual is not elaborated upon in the text.

Summary

In summary, H229 is a singular name in the biblical text whose purpose is exclusively genealogical. It appears once to identify a man named Ezbai as a father, demonstrating the meticulous detail with which biblical authors recorded family lines. While its meaning may be "hyssop-like," its contribution is as a small but precise piece of the historical record preserved in scripture.