The Hebrew word Yâkîynîy, represented by H3200, is a patronymic term meaning a Jakinite or, collectively, the descendants of Jakin, the Jachinites. This highly specific word is used to denote a particular lineage. It is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible.
The sole use of H3200 occurs in the book of Numbers during a census of the tribes of Israel. The term identifies one of the families within the tribe of Simeon. The text establishes a clear line of descent, stating, "of Jachin, the family of the Jachinites" Numbers 26:12. This usage precisely defines a specific clan by tracing it back to its founding ancestor, Jachin.
The meaning of H3200 is directly tied to its root word and the context of family and tribe:
- H3199 Yâkîyn (Jachin): This is the proper name from which Yâkîynîy is derived. Jachin is identified as one of the sons of Simeon, and his descendants are the Jachinites Numbers 26:12. The name itself means "he (or it) will establish."
- H8095 Shimʻôwn (Simeon): This refers to one of Jacob's sons and the Israelite tribe descended from him. The Jachinites are documented as a family group within this larger tribe Numbers 26:12.
- H4940 mishpâchâh (family): This word, defined as "a family, i.e. circle of relatives," is central to the verse where H3200 is found. It establishes the organizational structure of the census, breaking the tribe down into its constituent family lines Numbers 26:12.
- H3228 Yᵉmîynîy (Jaminites): This is another patronymic term appearing in the same verse, referring to the descendants of Jamin. Its parallel usage highlights the consistent biblical method of naming clans after their progenitors Numbers 26:12.
The significance of H3200 is primarily genealogical and structural, rather than theological. It plays a specific role in the biblical record.
- Patronymic Lineage: The word is a clear example of a patronymic, a name derived from a male ancestor. This system was fundamental to establishing identity, inheritance rights, and social structure in ancient Israel.
- Tribal Organization: Its use in the census of Simeon H8095 demonstrates the meticulous detail with which Israel's tribes were organized. Each tribe was a collection of distinct families, and terms like Jachinites gave each clan a formal designation.
- Biblical Record-Keeping: The inclusion of the Jachinites in the official count of Israel's sons Numbers 26:12 underscores the importance of preserving the lineage of every family H4940 as part of the nation's history and identity.
In summary, H3200 Yâkîynîy is a precise genealogical term whose importance comes from its function within the biblical text. Although used only once, it effectively identifies the Jachinites as a distinct family descended from Jachin within the tribe of Simeon. Its usage in the census of Numbers highlights the biblical emphasis on orderly lineage and the preservation of ancestral identity as a cornerstone of the nation of Israel.
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