The Hebrew name Chênâdâd, represented by H2582, means "favor of Hadad; Henadad." It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. This name identifies an Israelite whose family, specifically his sons, played a significant role among the Levites during the restoration of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.
The family of Henadad is consistently mentioned in the context of rebuilding and rededication. His sons were among the Levites H3881 who helped set forward H5329 the workmen (H6213, H4399) in the house H1004 of God Ezra 3:9. In Nehemiah's account of rebuilding the city wall, two of his sons are noted for their contributions. Bavai, the son H1121 of Henadad and ruler H8269 of half of Keilah, repaired H2388 a section Nehemiah 3:18. Binnui, another son H1121 of Henadad, also repaired H2388 a piece of the wall Nehemiah 3:24. The family's commitment is further shown when Binnui, of the sons of Henadad, is listed among the Levites who sealed the covenant Nehemiah 10:9.
Several related words clarify the context of Henadad's family and their work:
- H1121 bên (son): Defined as a son, as a builder of the family name. This term is essential as Henadad is known exclusively through the actions of his "sons" (Ezra 3:9, Nehemiah 3:18).
- H3881 Lêvîyîy (Levite): A descendant of Levi. This identifies the lineage of Henadad's family and establishes their role in the religious service and community leadership of Israel Ezra 3:9.
- H2388 châzaq (repaired): A primitive root meaning to be strong, fortify, or repair. This word describes the specific work undertaken by Henadad's sons on the wall of Jerusalem (Nehemiah 3:18, Nehemiah 3:24).
- H1131 Binnûwy (Binnui): The name of one of Henadad's sons, meaning "built up." He was a prominent figure who both repaired H2388 the wall and participated in the sacred covenant (Nehemiah 10:9, Nehemiah 3:24).
The narrative surrounding Henadad's family highlights several key themes:
- Post-Exilic Restoration: The family of Henadad is central to the account of Israel's restoration. His sons Binnui and Bavai actively participated in the physical rebuilding when they repaired H2388 the city walls (Nehemiah 3:18, Nehemiah 3:24).
- Covenant Faithfulness: The family's contribution was not merely physical. The "sons of Henadad" are listed among the Levites H3881 who affirmed their allegiance to God by sealing the covenant, demonstrating deep spiritual commitment Nehemiah 10:9.
- Dedicated Service: The sons of Henadad were integral to organizing the work on the temple, helping to set forward H5329 the workmen Ezra 3:9. Their role as leaders is also noted, with Bavai identified as a ruler H8269 of a district Nehemiah 3:18.
In summary, H2582 Henadad is the patriarch of a notable Levite family whose descendants were instrumental in the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Though he is not mentioned directly acting, his sons are depicted as key figures in the restoration effort, contributing labor, leadership, and spiritual commitment. Their work on the temple and the city wall, along with their participation in the covenant, marks the family of Henadad as a symbol of faithfulness and service during a critical period in Israel's history.
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