### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Kôwnanyâhûw**, represented by `{{H3562}}`, means **Jah has sustained**. The name, also spelled Conaniah or Cononiah, appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses**. It is the name given to two Israelites who held significant leadership roles among the Levites during periods of religious reform.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, Conaniah is first identified as a **Levite** `{{H3881}}` during the reign of King Hezekiah. He was appointed as the **ruler** `{{H5057}}` responsible for faithfully managing the **offerings** `{{H8641}}`, **tithes** `{{H4643}}`, and **dedicated** `{{H6944}}` things brought into the **house** `{{H1004}}` of **God** `{{H430}}` [[2 Chronicles 31:12]]. His **brother** `{{H251}}`, Shimei `{{H8096}}`, served as his second-in-command. This administrative duty was given at the **commandment** `{{H4662}}` of the **king** `{{H4428}}` and Azariah `{{H5838}}`, the ruler of the house of God, with a team of **overseers** `{{H6496}}` working under Cononiah's authority [[2 Chronicles 31:13]]. Later, a Conaniah is mentioned as a **chief** `{{H8269}}` of the Levites who, along with his brethren, generously gave thousands of **oxen** `{{H1241}}` and small cattle for the **passover offerings** `{{H6453}}` [[2 Chronicles 35:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several individuals and roles are closely associated with Conaniah, defining his context and responsibilities:
* `{{H8096}}` **Shimʻîy** (famous): Identified as Cononiah's **brother** `{{H251}}` and the one who was "the next" or second in command over the temple offerings, highlighting a trusted familial and professional relationship [[2 Chronicles 31:12]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (a Levite or descendant of Levi): This title is central to Cononiah's identity, as his roles as a ruler over offerings and a chief providing for the Passover are directly tied to his Levitical duties [[2 Chronicles 31:12]].
* `{{H5057}}` **nâgîyd** (a commander (as occupying the front), civil, military or religious): This term designates Cononiah's high rank as a "ruler" over the sacred contributions, a position of significant trust and authority within the temple structure [[2 Chronicles 31:12]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (a head person (of any rank or class)): In a later account, Conaniah is described as a "chief" of the Levites, underscoring his status as a prominent leader among his kinsmen [[2 Chronicles 35:9]].
### Theological Significance
The accounts of Conaniah highlight his significant role in the administration and support of temple worship.
* **Administrative Integrity:** Cononiah was entrusted with the oversight of all offerings and tithes, which he and his brother managed **faithfully** `{{H530}}` [[2 Chronicles 31:12]]. This demonstrates a character of immense integrity, vital for handling the sacred provisions of God's house.
* **Levitical Leadership:** As both a **ruler** `{{H5057}}` and a **chief** `{{H8269}}` among the Levites, Conaniah was a key figure in organizing and executing the commands of the king for the proper function of the priesthood and temple services.
* **Exemplary Generosity:** The record of Conaniah's massive contribution for the Passover offerings shows a leader who not only managed resources but also gave generously from his own, setting an example for the other Levites [[2 Chronicles 35:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3562}}` **Kôwnanyâhûw** is more than just a name; it represents a legacy of faithful Levitical service. The name "Jah has sustained" is fitting for a man tasked with managing the very provisions that sustained the temple worship. The biblical accounts portray Conaniah as a trusted administrator, an organized leader, and a generous benefactor whose actions were crucial to the religious life of Israel during important moments of revival.
TRV