### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Charshâʼ**, represented by `{{H2797}}`, is a proper name, **Harsha**. According to its base definition, it is derived from a word meaning magician and identifies **Harsha** as one of the Nethinim. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Old Testament, specifically within genealogical records.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H2797}}` is used exclusively to identify the patriarch of a family. The name appears in two parallel passages which list the families returning from the Babylonian exile. Both Ezra and Nehemiah record the lineage as, "The children of Bazlith, the children of Mehida, the children of **Harsha**" ([[Nehemiah 7:54]]; [[Ezra 2:52]]). This context places **Harsha** among the Nethinim, who were temple servants returning to Jerusalem.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear alongside **Harsha** in the genealogical lists, defining the family structures:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son (as a builder of the family name)): This word is used to establish the lineage of **Harsha**, identifying his descendants as "The children of **Harsha**" ([[Ezra 2:52]]; [[Nehemiah 7:54]]). It is the foundational term for establishing family lines in these records.
* `{{H1213}}` **Batslûwth** (a peeling; Batsluth or Batslith, an Israelite; Bazlith, Bazluth): The family of Bazlith is listed immediately preceding the family of **Harsha** in the census records of both Ezra and Nehemiah, indicating they were part of the same returning group ([[Ezra 2:52]]; [[Nehemiah 7:54]]).
* `{{H4240}}` **Mᵉchîydâʼ** (junction; Mechida, one of the Nethinim; Mehida): The children of Mehida are also listed alongside the children of **Harsha**, connecting these families as part of the Nethinim who returned to their land ([[Ezra 2:52]]; [[Nehemiah 7:54]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2797}}` is primarily historical and genealogical rather than theological.
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The inclusion of **Harsha** in the official records of Ezra and Nehemiah underscores the importance of preserving the identity of every family that returned to Jerusalem, including the temple servants known as the Nethinim.
* **Identity of the Nethinim:** The name is explicitly tied to the Nethinim, a class of individuals dedicated to the service of the temple. The mention of "the children of **Harsha**" affirms this family's role within the restored community of Israel.
* **Etymological Root:** The base definition of **Harsha** connects it to the word "magician." While the name is only used to identify a person, this definition points to a potential background or meaning associated with the family name itself.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2797}}` functions as the proper name **Harsha**, identifying the head of a family of Nethinim. Its two occurrences in Scripture are vital for the genealogical lists that document the community returning from exile. While a minor name in the biblical text, its presence highlights the meticulous record-keeping of the era and the recognized place of the Nethinim in the service of God's temple.
TRV