### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Chashbaddânâh**, represented by `{{H2806}}`, translates to **considerate judge**. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, identifying a specific Israelite named Hasbadana.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of Hasbadana `{{H2806}}` is in the account of the public reading of the Law following the Israelites' return to Jerusalem. He is listed among a group of men who stood{H5975} with Ezra{H5830} the scribe{H5608} upon a wooden pulpit{H4026}, or tower, that was made{H6213} for this specific purpose{H1697}. Hasbadana was positioned on Ezra's left hand{H8040}, signifying his role as one of the leaders present for this solemn and historic occasion [[Nehemiah 8:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several other individuals and terms from this event provide context for Hasbadana's role:
* `{{H5830}}` **ʻEzrâʼ** (Ezra): The central figure of the event, a ready scribe{H5608} who brought the book of the law before the congregation [[Nehemiah 8:1]] and prepared his heart to teach it in Israel [[Ezra 7:10]].
* `{{H4026}}` **migdâl** (pulpit): The wooden platform upon which Ezra and the leaders stood{H5975}. The word also means a tower, often used to signify a place of strength or refuge [[Proverbs 18:10]].
* `{{H8040}}` **sᵉmôʼwl** (left hand): This marker specifies Hasbadana's position beside{H681} Ezra, along with others like Pedaiah{H6305}, Mishael{H4332}, and Malchiah{H4441}, as part of the formal assembly [[Nehemiah 8:4]].
* `{{H4918}}` **Mᵉshullâm** (Meshullam): Another leader who stood on the left. The name means "allied" and appears with Zechariah{H2148} in other contexts related to the work of the Levites [[2 Chronicles 34:12]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H2806}}` is derived entirely from the context of his single appearance.
* **Unified Leadership:** Hasbadana's presence on the pulpit{H4026} alongside Ezra and a dozen other named men shows a unified leadership supporting the restoration of God's Word `{{H1697}}` at the center of the nation's life [[Nehemiah 8:4]].
* **A Supporting Role:** While Ezra was the primary reader, the men standing with him, including Hasbadana, served as public witnesses and supporters of the covenant renewal taking place.
* **"Considerate Judge" by the Law:** Although the Bible does not expand on his character, the meaning of his name, "considerate judge," is noteworthy. His presence at an event dedicated to teaching and understanding God's law aligns perfectly with a name that suggests judicial wisdom and thoughtfulness.
### Summary
In summary, **Chashbaddânâh** `{{H2806}}` is the name of an Israelite, Hasbadana, mentioned once in Scripture. His identity is tied exclusively to the significant event where Ezra the scribe read the Law to the people. Though not a central character, his presence on the platform highlights the theme of shared leadership and the corporate responsibility of upholding God's commandments during a crucial period of national renewal.
TRV