The Hebrew name Chôwthâm, represented by H2369, is used in the Bible for two Israelites named Hotham or Hothan. According to its base definition, the word is the same as the Hebrew for "seal." It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in scripture.
Both appearances of H2369 are within genealogical lists in 1 Chronicles. First, Hotham is named as one of the sons of Heber 1 Chronicles 7:32. In a separate context, Hothan the Aroerite is identified as the father of Shama and Jehiel 1 Chronicles 11:44. These references serve to document specific family lines.
Several related words help clarify the family relationships surrounding Hotham and Hothan:
- H2268 Cheber (Heber): Meaning "community," this name identifies the father of Hotham, establishing the first individual's parentage 1 Chronicles 7:32.
- H3205 yâlad (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This verb is used to establish the direct father-son relationship between Heber and Hotham 1 Chronicles 7:32.
- H1121 ben (a son): This word is essential in the second reference, identifying Shama and Jehiel as the sons of Hothan the Aroerite 1 Chronicles 11:44.
- H269 ʼâchôwth (a sister): This term appears alongside Hotham and his brothers, identifying Shua and defining the complete family unit born to Heber 1 Chronicles 7:32.
The significance of H2369 is rooted in its genealogical function.
- Establishing Lineage: The primary role of H2369 is to anchor individuals within the historical genealogies of Israel. Hotham is documented as a son of Heber 1 Chronicles 7:32.
- Patrilineal Identity: The name Hothan is used to identify the heritage of his sons, Shama and Jehiel, linking them to their father in a list of notable men 1 Chronicles 11:44.
- Record Preservation: The inclusion of these two distinct individuals named Hotham/Hothan highlights the meticulous nature of the biblical record in preserving family histories and identities.
In summary, H2369 functions exclusively as a proper name, Hotham or Hothan, in its scriptural occurrences. It serves a specific role within genealogical records, connecting generations by identifying one man as a son and another as a father. While its base word means "seal," its biblical application is focused on preserving the identities and lineages of two specific Israelites in the chronicles of Israel.
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