### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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