feminine of חֶשְׁבּוֹן; inventiveness; Chashnah, an Israelite; Hashabnah.
Transliteration:Chăshabnâh
Pronunciation:khash-ab-naw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H2812}}`, *Chăshabnâh* (חֲשַׁבְנָה), is primarily a proper noun, identifying an individual in the biblical text. Its base definition indicates it is a feminine form derived from `{{H2808}}` (*chešbôn*), which signifies "reckoning, device, invention, account." The root verb is `{{H2803}}` (*châshab*), meaning "to think, devise, reckon, account, impute." Therefore, etymologically, `{{H2812}}` carries connotations of thought, calculation, ingenuity, or a planned design. While the name itself denotes a specific person, its underlying semantic range points to intellectual activity, foresight, or a capacity for careful consideration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H2812}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Nehemiah.
* [[Nehemiah 10:25]]: "Hashabnah, Maaseiah, and Ahiah." (This is verse 26 in some English translations).
In this sole occurrence, Hashabnah is listed among the heads of the people, the priests, and the Levites who affixed their seals to the solemn covenant in the days of Nehemiah. This covenant was a renewed commitment by the post-exilic community to walk in God's law, to observe His commandments, and to avoid intermarriage with the surrounding peoples. Hashabnah's inclusion in this significant roster indicates a position of responsibility and leadership within the returned Jewish community, signifying his personal and corporate commitment to the spiritual restoration of Israel. Despite the etymological root being a feminine form, the individual named Hashabnah in Nehemiah is clearly listed among male signatories.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related words are the etymological roots from which `{{H2812}}` is derived:
* `{{H2808}}` (*chešbôn*): "reckoning, device, invention, account." This noun directly informs the meaning of Hashabnah.
* `{{H2803}}` (*châshab*): "to think, devise, reckon, account, impute." This verb is the foundational root, conveying the core concept of mental activity, planning, or evaluation.
Thematically, `{{H2812}}` is connected to:
* **Covenant (ברית - `{{H1285}}`)**: The context of its sole occurrence is the sealing of the covenant, underscoring collective and individual fidelity to God's law.
* **Leadership and Responsibility**: As one of the signatories, Hashabnah represents a segment of the community entrusted with upholding the covenant.
* **Post-Exilic Restoration**: The broader context of Nehemiah is the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls and the spiritual renewal of the people after the Babylonian exile.
* **Theological Anthropology**: The root meaning of "thinking" or "devising" subtly points to the human capacity for reasoned action and intentional commitment, faculties often seen as divinely bestowed.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name, the theological significance of `{{H2812}}` is primarily tied to the individual it identifies and the momentous event in which he participated. Hashabnah's presence among those who sealed the covenant in [[Nehemiah 10:25]] highlights the crucial role of individual commitment within the corporate life of God's people. His participation symbolizes the collective resolve of the returned exiles to re-establish their identity and life squarely upon the foundation of God's Torah.
The etymological root, suggesting "inventiveness" or "reckoning," might carry a subtle theological implication. In a time of rebuilding and spiritual renewal, individuals of thoughtful disposition, who could "reckon" or "devise" wise paths forward in adherence to God's commands, were vital. It could imply a person characterized by careful consideration, discernment, or even a spirit of ingenuity applied to the spiritual and communal life of Israel. Such a characteristic would be highly valued in leadership during a period of significant restoration and reformation. Thus, Hashabnah represents not just a name, but a participant in a profound act of national repentance and dedication to the divine will.
### Summary
`{{H2812}}`, *Chăshabnâh* (Hashabnah), is a proper noun found once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[Nehemiah 10:25]]. Etymologically, it derives from a root meaning "to think, devise, reckon," implying "inventiveness" or "calculation." The individual Hashabnah is listed as one of the leaders who affixed their seal to the solemn covenant in the post-exilic period, committing the community to God's law. His inclusion underscores the importance of individual and corporate responsibility in covenant fidelity and the spiritual renewal of Israel. The name's underlying meaning may subtly suggest a person of thoughtful deliberation, a quality essential for leadership in the crucial era of restoration.
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