The Hebrew word 'Abiy'acaph, represented by H23, is defined as "father of gathering (i.e. gatherer)". This term refers to Abiasaph, an Israelite. It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible.
In the biblical narrative, H23 is specifically identified as an individual within a family lineage. Abiasaph is listed as one of the sons of Korah, alongside Assir H617 and Elkanah H511 Exodus 6:24. This verse places Abiasaph within the context of the families H4940 of the Korhites H7145, highlighting his connection to a significant tribal group descended from Korah H7141.
Several related words provide context to the identity and familial connections of Abiasaph:
- H1121 ben (son): This term signifies a direct familial relationship, used to describe Abiasaph as a son Exodus 6:24. It encompasses the idea of being a builder of the family name and extends to various literal and figurative relationships.
- H7141 Qôrach (Korah): This proper noun identifies the father of Abiasaph Exodus 6:24.
- H617 'Aççîyr (Assir): This name is mentioned alongside Abiasaph as another son of Korah Exodus 6:24, indicating a fraternal relationship within the same lineage. Its definition is 'prisoner'.
- H511 'Elqânâh (Elkanah): Appearing with Abiasaph and Assir as a son of Korah Exodus 6:24, Elkanah is another individual within this familial structure. Its definition is 'God has obtained'.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (family): This term defines the larger group to which Abiasaph belongs, specifically the families of the Korhites Exodus 6:24. It denotes a circle of relatives, a tribe, or a people.
- H7145 Qorchîy (Korahite): This patronymic term identifies the collective descendants of Korah H7141 Exodus 6:24, indicating the tribal or clan affiliation of Abiasaph.
While H23 appears only once, its presence in a genealogical record highlights significant biblical themes:
- Lineage and Identity: The inclusion of Abiasaph in the list of Korah's sons Exodus 6:24 underscores the importance of tribal and family identity in ancient Israel. Names served to mark an individual's place within the broader community.
- Family Continuity: As a "son" H1121, Abiasaph represents the continuation of a family line, a concept vital for understanding the preservation of a group or people, such as the Korhites H7145 and their "families" H4940.
In summary, while H23 'Abiy'acaph is mentioned in a single biblical instance, its context within a genealogical record in Exodus 6:24 underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage, family identity, and the continuation of ancestral lines through individuals like Abiasaph, a son within the Korahite family. The name itself, "father of gathering," places him as a notable figure within this specific family structure.
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