The Hebrew word ʼÊchîy, represented by H278, is the proper name of an Israelite, translated as Ehi. The base definition indicates it is probably the same as another Hebrew word, אֲחִי. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, marking it as a name associated with a specific genealogical record.
The single biblical appearance of H278 is found in the book of Genesis. In this passage, Ehi is listed as one of the sons of Benjamin who journeyed into Egypt with Jacob. This mention occurs within a detailed genealogy of the descendants of Jacob, documenting the seventy souls who comprised his household at that time Genesis 46:21. The context firmly places Ehi as a grandson of Jacob and a foundational member of what would become the tribe of Benjamin.
Several related words provide context for the family and lineage of Ehi:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word defines the relationship of Ehi and his brothers to their father. It is used directly in the verse "And the sons of Benjamin were..." Genesis 46:21, establishing the genealogical connection.
- H1144 Binyâmîyn (Benjamin): As the father of Ehi, his name is central to this lineage. He is the youngest son of Jacob, and his descendants formed one of Israel's twelve tribes Genesis 46:21.
- H1106 Belaʻ (Bela): Listed as one of the sons of Benjamin alongside Ehi, identifying him as a brother Genesis 46:21.
- H1617 Gêrâʼ (Gera): Another individual named as a son of Benjamin in the same list, further defining the immediate family of Ehi Genesis 46:21.
The significance of H278 is tied entirely to its role in biblical genealogy and history.
- Documenting Patriarchal Lineage: The mention of Ehi is part of the meticulous record-keeping that establishes the lineage of the sons of Jacob, which is foundational to the identity of the nation of Israel Genesis 46:21.
- Foundation of the Tribe of Benjamin: As a named son of Benjamin H1144, Ehi is recorded as a progenitor within one of the key tribes of Israel.
- Witness to a Pivotal Event: His inclusion in the list of those who went to Egypt places him within the core family group at a pivotal moment in Israel's history, setting the stage for the subsequent events of the Exodus.
In summary, H278 ʼÊchîy is a personal name whose importance lies in its singular appearance within a significant genealogical list. The name Ehi identifies one of the original sons of Benjamin who entered Egypt, underscoring the biblical emphasis on preserving the lineage of the patriarchs. Its presence in this record highlights the historical accounting of the family that would grow into the nation of Israel.
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