The Hebrew word Chadlay, represented by H2311, is defined as idle and is used as the proper name Hadlai. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verses in the Bible, where it identifies an Israelite man.
In the biblical narrative, Hadlai is mentioned once in a genealogical context 2 Chronicles 28:12. He is named as the father of Amasa, one of the "heads of the children of Ephraim" H7218 H669. These leaders, including Amasa the son H1121 of Hadlai, "stood up" H6965 to oppose the army returning from the war H6635. Hadlai's sole appearance in scripture serves to establish the lineage of his son, a prominent figure in this event.
Several related words in the passage provide context for Hadlai's mention:
- H6021 ʻĂmâsâʼ (Amasa): Defined as burden, this is the name of Hadlai's son, one of the leaders of Ephraim who took a moral stand 2 Chronicles 28:12.
- H1121 bên (son): This word, meaning "a son (as a builder of the family name)," establishes the direct father-son relationship that is the only reason Hadlai is named in the text.
- H7218 rôʼsh (head): Meaning "chief" or "ruler," this term describes the status of Hadlai's son, Amasa, highlighting the authority of the men who intervened after the war 2 Chronicles 28:12.
- H6965 qûwm (to rise): This verb, used here as "stood up," signifies the decisive action taken by Amasa and the other leaders, giving weight to the event where Hadlai's name is recorded.
The mention of H2311 has significance derived entirely from its context:
- Importance of Lineage: Hadlai's inclusion demonstrates the biblical importance of genealogical records for establishing the identity and authority of key figures, such as his son Amasa.
- Connection to Righteous Action: Though not an actor in the event, Hadlai is linked to an act of moral courage. His son was among the leaders who "stood up" H6965 to enforce justice, connecting Hadlai's family name to righteous leadership within Ephraim.
- Tribal Identity: Being named in the list of the "heads of the children of Ephraim" H669 cements Hadlai's lineage within the historical account of a major Israelite tribe.
In summary, H2311 is the name Hadlai, an individual mentioned only once to provide the paternal lineage of his son, Amasa. His presence in scripture highlights the value placed on detailed records to validate the identity of those who participated in significant historical and moral events. The name is preserved as part of an account of courageous leadership among the heads of Ephraim 2 Chronicles 28:12.
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