### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yimnâʻ**, represented by `{{H3234}}`, is a proper name meaning **he will restrain**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire biblical text. As a personal name, its significance is tied directly to the individual who bore it, an Israelite named **Imna**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H3234}}` is within the genealogical records of the Old Testament. In the book of 1 Chronicles, Imna is listed as part of a family lineage. The text states, "And the sons of his brother Helem; Zophah, and **Imna**, and Shelesh, and Amal" [[1 Chronicles 7:35]]. This mention establishes Imna's identity by placing him within a specific family unit, identifying his father and brothers, thereby cementing his place in the historical record of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{H3234}}` in [[1 Chronicles 7:35]] connects it to several other names and familial terms:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (sons): This word, defined as "a son (as a builder of the family name)," is used to establish the direct genealogical link between Helem and his offspring, including Imna.
* `{{H251}}` **ʼâch** (brother): Defined as "a brother," this term is used to describe the relationship of Helem to the patriarch of this specific family line.
* `{{H1987}}` **Helem** (smiter; Helem, the name of two Israelites; Helem.): This is the name of Imna's father, placing Imna in the second generation of this particular family branch.
* `{{H6690}}` **Tsôwphach** (Zophah): Listed alongside Imna as one of the sons of Helem, identifying him as Imna's brother.
* `{{H8028}}` **Shelesh** (triplet; Shelesh, an Israelite; Shelesh.): Also named as a brother of Imna in the same verse.
* `{{H6000}}` **ʻÂmâl** (Amal): The final brother of Imna mentioned in the list of Helem's sons.
### Theological Significance
While the name `{{H3234}}` itself carries no extensive theological doctrine, its inclusion in scripture holds significance.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** The primary function of its appearance is to contribute to the detailed genealogical records of Israel. These lists were vital for establishing tribal identity, inheritance, and the historical continuity of God's people.
* **Individual in Community:** Imna's inclusion, though brief, demonstrates that the biblical narrative is composed of real individuals and families. His mention in [[1 Chronicles 7:35]] affirms his existence and his place within the covenant community.
* **Historical Record:** The name serves as a marker in the historical account of Israel. It is part of the framework that grounds the larger redemptive story in a specific time and people, reminding the reader that God's plan unfolds through the lives of specific individuals.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3234}}`, or **Imna**, is a name whose importance is derived entirely from its context. Meaning "he will restrain," the name is mentioned only once as part of a genealogy in [[1 Chronicles 7:35]]. It serves as a valuable example of the meticulous nature of the biblical record, where even individuals who do not have a larger narrative role are named and remembered as part of the fabric of Israel's history.
TRV