The Hebrew name ʼĂchûwmay, represented by H267, identifies an Israelite named Ahumai. Appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse, its meaning is possibly derived from "brother (i.e. neighbour) of water."
The sole appearance of H267 occurs within a genealogical record in 1 Chronicles. Ahumai is named as the son of Jahath and the brother of Lahad. This lineage is part of the tribe of Judah, tracing back through Reaiah, the son of Shobal. The verse concludes by identifying this specific lineage as belonging to "the families of the Zorathites" 1 Chronicles 4:2.
The context of Ahumai's mention is clarified by several related words that establish his lineage:
- H3205 yâlad (begat): This primitive root, meaning "to bear young; causatively, to beget," is the primary verb used to construct the genealogy. The record states that Jahath begat Ahumai and Lahad 1 Chronicles 4:2.
- H1121 bên (son): Defined as "a son (as a builder of the family name)," this word is critical for showing the generational connection. The line is established with Reaiah the son of Shobal 1 Chronicles 4:2.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (family): Referring to a "circle of relatives," this term provides the collective identity for the individuals listed. The lineage of Ahumai is explicitly identified as one of "the families of the Zorathites" 1 Chronicles 4:2.
The theological significance of H267 is found not in the individual, but in his inclusion within the biblical record.
- Covenantal Record-Keeping: The mention of Ahumai is part of the meticulous genealogies that affirm God's faithfulness to the tribes of Israel. The chronicling of families H4940 demonstrates God's promise to be the God of all the families of Israel Jeremiah 31:1.
- Genealogical Identity: The use of begat H3205 and son H1121 establishes a clear line of descent. This practice was vital for affirming tribal identity, inheritance, and one's place within the people of God.
- Communal Belonging: Ahumai is not presented in isolation but as part of a larger kinship group, the Zorathites H6882. This highlights the biblical principle that individual identity is deeply connected to one's family and tribe 1 Chronicles 4:2.
In summary, H267, Ahumai, is the name of an Israelite who appears a single time in scripture. His mention serves a purely genealogical function, placing him within the lineage of Judah and the families of the Zorathites. While a minor figure, his inclusion illustrates the biblical importance of carefully preserved lineage, the role of family H4940 in national identity, and the detailed accounting of God's covenant people.
TRV