### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yachath**, represented by `{{H3189}}`, is a proper name meaning **unity**. It appears 8 times across 7 unique verses and is used to identify four distinct Israelites in the biblical record. Its usage is concentrated within genealogical lists and accounts of administrative roles, primarily in the books of Chronicles.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3189}}` primarily serves to establish lineage and identify individuals in positions of responsibility. The name appears in the Levitical line of Gershom, identifying **Jahath** as the son of Libni [[1 Chronicles 6:20]] and the ancestor of Asaph [[1 Chronicles 6:43]]. Another **Jahath** is recorded as a descendant of Judah who begat the families of the Zorathites [[1 Chronicles 4:2]]. The name is also connected to leadership roles; one **Jahath** was a Levite who served as an overseer during the temple repairs under King Josiah [[2 Chronicles 34:12]], while another was designated the **chief** of his family group [[1 Chronicles 23:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which **Jahath** appears:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is fundamental to the context of `{{H3189}}`, appearing in nearly every instance to establish genealogical connections, such as in "Libni his son, **Jahath** his son" [[1 Chronicles 6:20]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget): This term defines the act of fathering and is used to trace the lineage descending from **Jahath**, as seen in the statement "**Jahath** begat Ahumai, and Lahad" [[1 Chronicles 4:2]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (the head, chief): This word explicitly defines the status of one of the men named **Jahath**, establishing his position of leadership within his family: "**Jahath** was the chief" [[1 Chronicles 23:11]].
* `{{H6486}}` **pᵉquddâh** (reckoning, charge, oversight): This term describes an official counting or charge. It is used in connection with **Jahath**'s family, who were counted in "one reckoning, according to their father's house" [[1 Chronicles 23:11]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3189}}` is rooted in its consistent appearance within Israel's official records, highlighting key societal structures.
* **Levitical Service:** The name is tied to the Levites, who were entrusted with temple service. The mention of **Jahath** as an overseer of the work on the house of the Lord underscores the organized and faithful execution of these sacred duties [[2 Chronicles 34:12]].
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The appearances of **Jahath** in detailed genealogies demonstrate the importance of maintaining tribal and family lineage in Israel, which was crucial for inheritance, identity, and priestly qualification.
* **Structured Authority:** The designation of **Jahath** as a "chief" `{{H7218}}` illustrates the hierarchical organization within the clans of Israel, ensuring order and clear lines of responsibility [[1 Chronicles 23:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3189}}` functions as a specific marker for individuals within the historical and genealogical accounts of Israel. While the name itself means **unity**, its biblical role is to identify key figures in the lineages of Judah and Levi. The name **Jahath** is consistently associated with the themes of lineage, administrative oversight, and structured leadership, reflecting the orderly nature of Israel's civic and religious life as recorded in Scripture.
TRV