The Hebrew word ʼÊchûwd, represented by H261, is a personal name meaning united. Derived from a root word for unity, it appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. Its sole function is to identify an individual named Ehud within a specific genealogical record.
The single biblical mention of H261 is found in a genealogical list in 1 Chronicles. Here, Ehud is named as the ancestor of a group of men who were leaders in their community. The verse states that the sons of Ehud were "the heads of the fathers of the inhabitants of Geba" 1 Chronicles 8:6. This passage not only establishes a lineage but also records a significant event, noting that these descendants were later removed from their home in Geba and relocated to Manahath.
Several related words in the verse provide context for the role of Ehud and his descendants:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes the direct familial connection and lineage, defining the men as the sons of Ehud 1 Chronicles 8:6. It is foundational to tracing family names and inheritance throughout scripture Malachi 1:6.
- H7218 rôʼsh (the head): This term defines the status of Ehud's descendants as chiefs or principal leaders. Their position as heads of the fathers highlights their authority within the clan structure 1 Chronicles 29:11.
- H3427 yâshab (to sit down... to dwell, to remain): This word identifies the people over whom Ehud's sons had authority, describing them as the inhabitants of Geba 1 Chronicles 8:6. It often refers to dwelling in a specific land or territory Joshua 24:15.
- H1540 gâlâh (to denude... to exile): This verb describes the action of displacement, stating that the sons of Ehud were removed to Manahath 1 Chronicles 8:6. The word often carries the meaning of being carried away captive or into exile Jeremiah 29:14.
The narrative significance of H261 is entirely contained within its genealogical context, offering a snapshot of a specific family's history.
- Genealogical Anchor: Ehud serves as a key ancestor, anchoring a specific family line within the records of the tribe of Benjamin.
- Patriarchal Leadership: The account connects the name directly to a legacy of authority, as his descendants are explicitly called heads H7218 of the fathers, a position of rule and responsibility in their community 1 Chronicles 8:6.
- Historical Displacement: The verse ties this family line to a history of migration or exile, a recurring theme in the Old Testament. The statement that they were removed H1540 provides a concise but significant detail about their fate 1 Chronicles 8:6.
In summary, H261 is not a common term but a specific proper name that marks a point in Israel's ancestral records. Its importance lies in its singular appearance, which concisely documents a line of patriarchal leaders from their position of authority in Geba to their eventual relocation. The name Ehud, while mentioned only once, is a key component in a verse that illustrates how genealogies preserve information about family structure, leadership, and historical movement.
TRV