patronymically from יְחִיאֵל; a Jechielite or descendant of Jechiel; Jehieli.
Transliteration:Yᵉchîyʼêlîy
Pronunciation:yekh-ee-ay-lee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word יְחִיאֵלִי (Yᵉchîyʼêlîy, `{{H3172}}`) is a patronymic adjective, derived from the proper noun יְחִיאֵל (Yᵉchîyʼêl, `{{H3171}}`). As a patronymic, its core meaning is "of Jechiel," "belonging to Jechiel," or "a descendant of Jechiel." The root name, יְחִיאֵל (Yᵉchîyʼêl), is a theophoric name meaning "God lives" or "May God live." Thus, the semantic range of Yᵉchîyʼêlîy is quite specific, referring exclusively to the lineage or family associated with an ancestor named Jechiel, whose name itself proclaims a foundational truth about God. It functions primarily as a clan or family identifier within the Levitical genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term Yᵉchîyʼêlîy (Jehieli/Jehielite) appears in the Old Testament primarily within the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically in the context of the Levitical divisions and their assigned duties during the reign of King David.
* In [[1 Chronicles 26:21]], the text states, "Of the sons of Ladan, the sons of the Gershonites belonging to Ladan, the heads of the fathers' houses of Ladan, Jehieli." Here, it appears to refer to a specific individual, Jehieli, who is a prominent figure among the descendants of Ladan, a son of Gershon. This Jehieli, or the line he represents, is then further elaborated upon.
* [[1 Chronicles 26:22]] clarifies the role of this lineage: "The sons of Jehieli, Zetham and Joel his brother, who were over the treasuries of the house of the Lord." This verse explicitly identifies "the sons of Jehieli" as being entrusted with the significant responsibility of overseeing the treasuries of the Tabernacle/Temple. This role implies a high degree of trust, administrative capability, and integrity, as they were responsible for the sacred offerings and resources dedicated to God's house.
The context underscores the meticulous organization of the Levitical service and the assignment of specific, vital roles to various families. The Jehielites were not merely identified by their lineage but also by their crucial function in the worship and administration of Israel's spiritual life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the proper noun יְחִיאֵל (Yᵉchîyʼêl, `{{H3171}}`), from which Yᵉchîyʼêlîy is derived. Understanding the meaning of the root name ("God lives") is essential for grasping the full significance of the patronymic.
Other related concepts include:
* **Patronymics:** The use of patronymics throughout the Hebrew Bible (e.g., "Ben-Israel," "House of David," "Korahites") serves to establish identity, lineage, tribal affiliation, and often, inherited roles or covenant responsibilities. The Jehielites fit this pattern, signifying their place within the broader Levitical structure.
* **Levitical Service:** The Jehielites' role as keepers of the temple treasuries connects them to the broader theme of Levitical duties, which encompassed various aspects of temple worship, administration, and instruction. This highlights the importance of order, accountability, and dedicated service within the covenant community.
* **Genealogy:** The detailed genealogies in Chronicles emphasize the continuity of God's covenant promises and the divine ordering of His people, where each family and individual has a designated place and purpose within the larger divine plan.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of Yᵉchîyʼêlîy is deeply embedded in the meaning of its root name, יְחִיאֵל (Yᵉchîyʼêl), "God lives."
1. **Identity in God's Living Presence:** For a family or clan to be identified as "Jehielite" meant their very name proclaimed the truth that "God lives." This was not merely an ancestral identifier but a theological statement woven into their corporate identity. It served as a constant reminder of the living, active, and present God to whom they belonged and whom they served.
2. **Faithfulness and Trust:** The Jehielites were entrusted with the sacred treasuries of the Lord's house. This responsibility speaks to their reputation for faithfulness and integrity. Their administrative role was not merely secular but part of the sacred service, reflecting the character expected of those whose identity was linked to the "living God." Their stewardship demonstrated a practical outworking of their theological identity.
3. **Continuity of Covenant Service:** The meticulous record of the Jehielite lineage and their specific duties underscores the divine ordering of Israel's worship and the continuity of God's purposes through generations. God faithfully provides for the administration of His sanctuary, and certain families are raised up and sustained to fulfill these vital functions.
4. **The Name as Testimony:** In ancient Israel, names often carried prophetic or declarative weight. For the Jehielites, their collective name was a perpetual testimony to the enduring life and sovereignty of Yahweh, a truth foundational to Israel's faith.
### Summary
Yᵉchîyʼêlîy (`{{H3172}}`) is a Hebrew patronymic meaning "of Jechiel" or "descendant of Jechiel," derived from the name יְחִיאֵל (Yᵉchîyʼêl, `{{H3171}}`), which means "God lives." This term appears in [[1 Chronicles 26:21]] and [[1 Chronicles 26:22]], identifying a specific Levitical family or clan, the Jehielites, who were entrusted with the crucial responsibility of overseeing the treasuries of the house of the Lord. Their role highlights the meticulous organization of Levitical service under King David and the importance of integrity in sacred duties. Theologically, the name Yᵉchîyʼêlîy carries profound significance, embedding the truth of God's enduring life into the very identity of this lineage, and underscoring the faithfulness and trustworthiness expected of those who serve the living God within His covenant community.
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