### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yôwyâqîym**, represented by `{{H3113}}`, is the name of an Israelite, Joiakim. This name appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. It is identified as a form of the name יְהוֹיָקִים.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Joiakim's role is exclusively genealogical and historical, specifically within the book of Nehemiah. He is established as a key figure in the priestly lineage following the return from exile. Scripture records that **Jeshua** `{{H3442}}` begat Joiakim, and Joiakim in turn begat **Eliashib** `{{H475}}`, continuing the high priestly line [[Nehemiah 12:10]]. His time as a leader is used as a historical marker to identify the chief priests who served, such as **Meraiah** `{{H4811}}` of the house of **Seraiah** `{{H8304}}` and **Hananiah** `{{H2608}}` of the house of **Jeremiah** `{{H3414}}` [[Nehemiah 12:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Joiakim's identity and era:
* `{{H3442}}` **Jêshûwaʻ** (Jeshua): As Joiakim's father, he is a foundational figure in the restoration community, the son of **Jozadak** `{{H3136}}` and a leader who returned with Zerubbabel ([[Nehemiah 12:26]], [[Ezra 2:2]]).
* `{{H475}}` **ʼElyâshîyb** (Eliashib): As Joiakim's son, he continues the priestly succession. The name means "God will restore" [[Nehemiah 12:10]].
* `{{H1121}}` **ben** (son): This word is essential for establishing Joiakim's place, identifying him as the **son** of Jeshua and the grandson of Jozadak, thereby cementing his priestly heritage [[Nehemiah 12:26]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): Joiakim's life is framed by his connection to the priesthood. The record of his days lists the leading **priests** who served during his time [[Nehemiah 12:12]].
* `{{H3117}}` **yôwm** (days): This word is used to frame the period of Joiakim's leadership, setting the historical scene for the events and lists recorded in Nehemiah ([[Nehemiah 12:12]], [[Nehemiah 12:26]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3113}}` is rooted in its role within the post-exilic narrative of Israel's restoration.
* **Priestly Continuity:** Joiakim represents a vital link in the chain of high priests, ensuring the continuation of the Aaronic line from **Jeshua** `{{H3442}}`, who returned from Babylon, to the subsequent generations who served in the newly rebuilt temple.
* **Historical Anchor:** The phrase "in the **days** of Joiakim" serves to anchor the list of priestly families, providing a specific time frame for their service. This period is further contextualized by placing it within the era of **Nehemiah** `{{H5166}}` the governor and **Ezra** `{{H5830}}` the scribe [[Nehemiah 12:26]].
* **Restored Order:** By being named in these records, Joiakim's life testifies to the re-establishment of organized worship and civic structure in Jerusalem, a central theme of the books of Ezra and Nehemiah.
### Summary
In summary, **Yôwyâqîym** `{{H3113}}` is more than just a name in a list; it signifies a person central to the continuity of the priesthood after the Babylonian exile. Documented as the son of Jeshua and father of Eliashib, his life serves as a crucial historical benchmark, contemporary with the reforms of Nehemiah and Ezra. His mention underscores the biblical emphasis on an orderly, traceable priestly authority in the restored community of Israel.
TRV