### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yathnîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H3496}}`, means **continued of God**. Derived from an unused root meaning to endure and the word for God, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular appearance is as the personal name of an Israelite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole mention of `{{H3496}}` is found within a genealogical record in the book of 1 Chronicles. In this passage, Jathniel is identified as the fourth **son** of a man named Meshelemiah. The verse simply lists him in the order of his birth alongside his three older brothers: Zechariah, Jediael, and Zebadiah [[1 Chronicles 26:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Jathniel's identity is established by his relationship to his immediate family, whose names also carry significant meanings:
* `{{H4920}}` **Mᵉshelemyâh** (ally of Jah): The father of Jathniel [[1 Chronicles 26:2]].
* `{{H2148}}` **Zᵉkaryâh** (Jah has remembered): Jathniel’s firstborn brother [[1 Chronicles 26:2]].
* `{{H3043}}` **Yᵉdîyʻăʼêl** (knowing God): The second brother listed in the family [[1 Chronicles 26:2]].
* `{{H2069}}` **Zᵉbadyâh** (Jah has given): The third brother of Jathniel [[1 Chronicles 26:2]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): The word used to establish the familial link between Meshelemiah and his children, including Jathniel [[1 Chronicles 26:2]].
### Theological Significance
Despite being mentioned only once, the name `{{H3496}}` carries theological weight through its definition and context.
* **A Declaration of Faith:** The name itself, "continued of God," is a statement about God's enduring and sustaining power. It reflects a belief that God's presence and support are constant.
* **Theophoric Family Naming:** Jathniel belongs to a family where names consistently honor God. His father's name means "ally of Jah," and his brothers' names mean "Jah has remembered," "knowing God," and "Jah has given." This pattern highlights a deliberate practice of embedding theological identity within the family.
* **Significance in the Record:** Jathniel is part of a Levitical family line responsible for being porters for the tabernacle ([[1 Chronicles 9:21]], [[1 Chronicles 26:1]]). His inclusion in this official record underscores the idea that every individual and their role within the covenant community is significant enough to be recorded.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3496}}` is a name that, while rare, offers a meaningful glimpse into Israelite faith. Its definition points to God's steadfastness, and its context within the family of Meshelemiah shows how personal names were used as powerful declarations of belief. The inclusion of Jathniel in the biblical record demonstrates that even individuals mentioned in passing are part of the larger, divinely preserved story.
TRV