### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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}}`.
### Summary
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.
TRV