The Hebrew word Yâmîyn, represented by H3226, is a proper name for three individuals in the Old Testament. It appears 6 times in 6 unique verses. The name itself is defined as Jamin, and its occurrences are primarily within genealogical lists.
In the biblical narrative, H3226 is used to identify three distinct Israelites. The most prominent is Jamin, a son of Simeon, whose lineage is documented in Genesis Genesis 46:10, Exodus Exodus 6:15, and 1 Chronicles 1 Chronicles 4:24. This Jamin is also noted as the progenitor of the family of the Jaminites Numbers 26:12. Another Jamin appears in the genealogy of Judah as a son of Ram, the firstborn of Jerahmeel 1 Chronicles 2:27. Lastly, a Levite named Jamin is listed among those who helped the people understand the Law during the time of Nehemiah Nehemiah 8:7.
Several related words help establish the context for the individuals named Jamin:
- H8095 Shimʻôwn (hearing; Shimon... Simeon): Jamin is repeatedly identified as one of the sons of Simeon, placing him within one of the twelve tribes of Israel Genesis 46:10.
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is fundamental to establishing Jamin's place in genealogies, as he is listed as the son of Simeon Exodus 6:15 and the son of Ram 1 Chronicles 2:27.
- H3228 Yᵉmîynîy (a Jeminite (collectively) or descendants of Jamin; Jaminites): This is the patronymic name derived from Jamin, identifying the family line that descended from him within the tribe of Simeon Numbers 26:12.
- H7410 Râm (high; Ram...): This name identifies the father of the second individual named Jamin, placing this Jamin within the line of Jerahmeel in the tribe of Judah 1 Chronicles 2:27.
The narrative significance of H3226 is rooted in its function within Israel's historical and communal records.
- Genealogical Identity: The name Jamin serves as a crucial marker in biblical genealogies, connecting generations and establishing the lineage of key families within the tribes of Simeon and Judah (Genesis 46:10, 1 Chronicles 2:27).
- Progenitor of a Clan: Jamin, son of Simeon, is identified as the founder of a specific Israelite family, the Jaminites H3228, demonstrating how individuals contributed to the formation of the larger national structure Numbers 26:12.
- Spiritual Leadership: The appearance of a Levite named Jamin in the post-exilic period highlights a different kind of role. He was instrumental in helping the people understand the Law, signifying his part in the spiritual and national restoration of Israel Nehemiah 8:7.
In summary, H3226 Yâmîyn is not a conceptual term but a personal name identifying three distinct individuals in Israel's history. Its primary function is genealogical, securing the lineage of a family within the tribe of Simeon and a line within Judah. The name also appears in the context of post-exilic spiritual leadership, illustrating how the name is carried by those who serve to build and instruct the community. Through these occurrences, the name Jamin contributes to the biblical record of family, tribe, and service.
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