The Hebrew word yᵉʼâthᵉray, represented by H2979, is the name of an Israelite, Jeaterai. Its definition is "stepping; Jeatherai, an Israelite; Jeaterai." The name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, marking it as a highly specific reference.
The sole appearance of H2979 is within a genealogical list in the book of 1 Chronicles. The verse establishes a direct line of descent: "Joah H3098 his son H1121, Iddo H5714 his son H1121, Zerah H2226 his son H1121, Jeaterai H2979 his son H1121" 1 Chronicles 6:21. This context places Jeaterai as a descendant in the Levitical lineage being recorded, specifically as the son of Zerah and the great-grandson of Joah.
The context of Jeaterai's appearance links him to several key individuals and a foundational relationship term:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes the generational link for each person in the lineage, including Jeaterai. It literally means "a son (as a builder of the family name)" and is the structural basis for the entire genealogical record in this passage 1 Chronicles 6:21.
- H2226 Zerach (Zerah): Defined as "Zerach, the name of three Israelites, also of an Idumaean and an Ethiopian prince," this is the name of Jeaterai's father 1 Chronicles 6:21.
- H3098 Yôwʼâch (Joah): Meaning "Jehovahbrothered; Joach, the name of four Israelites," Joah is listed as Jeaterai's great-grandfather in this lineage 1 Chronicles 6:21.
- H5714 ʻIddôw (Iddo): Meaning "timely; Iddo (or Iddi), the name of five Israelites," Iddo is recorded as Jeaterai's grandfather 1 Chronicles 6:21.
Though Jeaterai H2979 is mentioned only once without further detail, his inclusion in the biblical record carries significance by its context.
- Preservation of Lineage: His place in the genealogy of 1 Chronicles 6 highlights the meticulous preservation of the Levitical lines. This underscores the importance of the priesthood and its continuity in Israel's history and worship, as seen when the Levites arose to serve 2 Chronicles 29:12.
- Generational Faithfulness: The chain of names—Joah, Iddo, Zerah, and Jeaterai—illustrates God's work through successive generations. The concept of teaching God's works to "thy sons H1121, and thy sons' H1121 sons H1121" Deuteronomy 4:9 is physically represented in such lists.
- Individual in Community: The inclusion of a seemingly minor figure like Jeaterai demonstrates that every individual was a part of the covenant people. His identity is secured by his relationship to his father, Zerah H2226, and his sonship H1121, which connects him to the broader "sons H1121 of Jacob" Malachi 3:6.
In summary, yᵉʼâthᵉray H2979 is the proper name Jeaterai, found exclusively in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles 6:21. While no actions are attributed to him, his presence is significant. It affirms the biblical emphasis on historical and familial continuity, particularly within the priestly line of Levi. The name Jeaterai serves as a reminder that God's covenantal story is composed of specific individuals, each with a place in the generations He preserves.
TRV