from an unused root meaning to endure, and אֵל; continued of God; Jathniel, an Israelite; Jathniel.
Transliteration:Yathnîyʼêl
Pronunciation:yath-nee-ale'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma H3496, יַתְנִיאֵל (Yathnîyʼêl), is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its meaning is derived from two components. The first part stems from an unused root, which Strong's defines as conveying the sense of "to endure" or "to continue." The second component is אֵל (ʼĒl), meaning "God" or "Mighty One," a common divine element in Hebrew names. Therefore, the name Jathniel can be interpreted as "Continued of God," "God Endures," or "God Sustains." As a proper noun, its semantic range is fixed by this etymological derivation, pointing to the enduring nature or sustaining power of God in relation to the individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Jathniel (H3496) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 26:2]]: "The sons of Meshelemiah: Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth,"
In this sole occurrence, Jathniel is identified as the fourth son of Meshelemiah, a Korahite and one of the gatekeepers of the tabernacle/temple during the time of King David. The passage in 1 Chronicles 26 details the divisions and duties of the gatekeepers, who were responsible for guarding the temple entrances, managing the temple treasury, and ensuring order. Meshelemiah, also known as Shelemiah in [[1 Chronicles 26:14]], was a chief gatekeeper whose lot fell to the East Gate. Jathniel, as one of his sons, would have been part of this significant Levitical service. Their role was not merely ceremonial but vital for the security and proper functioning of the sacred precincts. The listing of his name within this organized framework underscores his specific place and function within the divinely ordained service structure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name Jathniel connects to several important biblical concepts:
* **אֵל (ʼĒl) `{{H410}}`**: This is the divine element "God" found in countless Hebrew names (e.g., Israel, Samuel, Daniel, Ezekiel). Its presence signifies a direct relationship with or attribute of God, imbuing the name with theological weight.
* **Endurance/Continuity**: While the root for "endure" is unused elsewhere, the concept of divine endurance and continuity is pervasive in Scripture. God's faithfulness, steadfast love (חֶסֶד `{{H2617}}`), and eternal nature are fundamental attributes. The name may reflect a hope or declaration of God's enduring presence and support.
* **Levitical Service**: Jathniel's role as a gatekeeper places him within the broader context of the Levitical priesthood and their dedicated service to God. This service, though varied in its specific duties, was essential for the worship life of Israel and was often passed down through families, emphasizing continuity.
* **Genealogy and Divine Order**: The detailed genealogies in Chronicles, including the specific listing of Jathniel, highlight the meticulous divine ordering of Israel's tribal and priestly structures. Each individual, even those with seemingly minor roles, was part of a larger, purposeful divine plan.
### Theological Significance
The name Jathniel, meaning "Continued of God" or "God Endures," carries profound theological resonance despite its singular occurrence. It serves as a quiet testimony to the enduring nature of God's character and His covenant faithfulness. In a world of change and transience, the name proclaims the steadfastness of the Almighty. For Jathniel himself, the name may have been a prophetic declaration over his life, signifying that his service, his lineage, or indeed his very existence was sustained and continued by divine power.
His role as a gatekeeper, a position requiring diligence, faithfulness, and vigilance, harmonizes with the name's meaning. The service of the temple, and by extension, the worship of God, was to endure through generations, sustained by God's provision and the faithfulness of His servants. Jathniel's inclusion in the sacred account, even in a brief mention, implies divine recognition and the importance of every individual's contribution, however seemingly small, to God's overarching plan. The name reminds us that God is the ultimate source of endurance and continuity for His people and His purposes.
### Summary
Jathniel (H3496, יַתְנִיאֵל) is a Hebrew personal name meaning "Continued of God" or "God Endures," derived from an unused root signifying endurance and the divine name אֵל (ʼĒl). It appears once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 26:2]], where Jathniel is identified as the fourth son of Meshelemiah, a Korahite gatekeeper of the tabernacle/temple during David's reign. This places him within the vital Levitical service responsible for the security and administration of the sacred precincts. The name itself serves as a theological statement, underscoring the enduring faithfulness and sustaining power of God, and implicitly affirming that even seemingly minor roles in God's service are divinely appointed and sustained. It highlights the continuity of God's purposes and the steadfastness of His character, reflected in the lives and names of His people.
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