from the base of חַכְלִיל and יָהּ; darkness of Jah; Chakaljah, an Israelite; Hachaliah.
Transliteration:Chăkalyâh
Pronunciation:khak-al-yaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper name Chăkalyâh (`{{H2446}}`) is a compound word derived from two elements: the base of חַכְלִיל (chakliyl, `{{H2447}}`) and יָהּ (Yah, `{{H3050}}`). The root חַכְלִיל conveys the sense of "dark," "dim," or "dull," often associated with the eyes, as seen in [[Genesis 49:12]]. The suffix יָהּ is a shortened, reverential form of the divine name Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. Therefore, the literal meaning of Chăkalyâh is "darkness of Yah" or "dimness of Yahweh." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to its etymological components and its identity as the name of a specific individual within the biblical narrative. It does not function as a common noun or verb with broader applications.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Chăkalyâh (`{{H2446}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Nehemiah, where it identifies the father of the prominent post-exilic leader Nehemiah.
1. [[Nehemiah 1:1]]: "The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah." This verse introduces Nehemiah and immediately establishes his lineage, highlighting his familial background.
2. [[Nehemiah 10:1]]: "Now these are the ones who sealed: Nehemiah the governor, the son of Hachaliah..." Here, Nehemiah is listed first among those who sealed the covenant, again with the specific patronymic "the son of Hachaliah."
In both instances, Hachaliah is presented solely as Nehemiah's father, providing a genealogical anchor for the book's central figure. Beyond this familial connection, the Scriptures offer no further information about Chăkalyâh himself. His significance is primarily derived from his relationship to Nehemiah and the intriguing nature of his name.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary root related to Chăkalyâh is חַכְלִיל (chakliyl, `{{H2447}}`), which describes a state of being "dark" or "dim." Its most notable occurrence is in [[Genesis 49:12]], where Jacob prophesies over Judah: "His eyes shall be darker than wine, and his teeth whiter than milk." This usage reinforces the idea of visual dimness or a deep, dark hue. The divine element יָהּ (Yah, `{{H3050}}`) is a common theophoric component in Hebrew names, signifying a connection to God. Many biblical names incorporate "Yah" or "Yahweh" to express a theological truth or a prayer, such as Isaiah ("Yahweh is salvation"), Jeremiah ("Yahweh exalts"), or Hezekiah ("Yahweh strengthens"). The distinctiveness of Chăkalyâh lies in the combination of a seemingly negative or ambiguous term, "darkness," with the divine name, setting it apart from more overtly positive or declarative names. This combination invites deeper contemplation regarding its intended meaning and the spiritual context of its bearer.
### Theological Significance
The name "Darkness of Yah" or "Dimness of Yahweh" carries profound theological implications, especially when considered in the context of Nehemiah's ministry. While "darkness" can signify evil or ignorance in Scripture, it also paradoxically describes the mysterious and awe-inspiring presence of God. God often revealed Himself in "thick darkness" ([[Exodus 20:21]], [[Deuteronomy 5:23]], [[1 Kings 8:12]]), indicating His unapproachable holiness and incomprehensible majesty. Thus, "Darkness of Yah" could signify a profound, mysterious aspect of God's nature, His hidden counsels, or His dwelling in unapproachable light that appears as darkness to human perception.
Alternatively, the name might reflect the spiritual condition of the people of Israel during the post-exilic period—a time of spiritual dimness, brokenness, and a perceived absence of God's manifest presence. From this context of "darkness," God raised up Nehemiah, whose very actions brought light, restoration, and the re-establishment of God's covenant with His people. The name Chăkalyâh could therefore serve as a poignant reminder of the state from which God's redemptive work emerged, highlighting His ability to work through periods of obscurity and human weakness. It subtly underscores the divine sovereignty that operates even in perceived "darkness" to bring forth His purposes.
### Summary
Chăkalyâh (`{{H2446}}`) is a unique Hebrew proper name, meaning "darkness of Yah" or "dimness of Yahweh," appearing exclusively as the father of Nehemiah. While little is known about the individual Hachaliah, his name is profoundly significant. Derived from חַכְלִיל (dark/dim, `{{H2447}}`) and יָהּ (Yahweh, `{{H3050}}`), it presents an intriguing paradox. Theologically, it may allude to the mysterious, unapproachable nature of God's presence, often described as dwelling in thick darkness. Alternatively, it could reflect the spiritual "dimness" or challenging circumstances of the post-exilic period from which God raised up Nehemiah to bring light and restoration. The name thus serves as a subtle testament to God's sovereign ability to work through all circumstances, even those perceived as dark, to accomplish His divine purposes.
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