The Hebrew word 'Ăbîyṭâl, represented by H37, is defined as father of dew (i.e. fresh). It identifies Abital, a wife of King David. This name appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
In the biblical narrative, H37 is used to identify one of King David's wives and the mother of one of his sons. Abital is recorded as the mother of Shephatiah H8203, whose lineage is specified in the lists of David's sons born in Hebron. Shephatiah is explicitly identified as "the son H1121 of Abital" 2 Samuel 3:4 and "Shephatiah H8203 of Abital" 1 Chronicles 3:3. Her inclusion in these genealogical records situates her within the immediate family structure of King David.
Several related words provide context to the identity of Abital:
- H1121 ben (son): This term is consistently used to denote a direct familial relationship, specifically identifying Abital's offspring, Shephatiah, and establishing her maternal role in David's family line (2 Samuel 3:4; 1 Chronicles 3:3). The word broadly indicates a familial relationship 1 Chronicles 28:9.
- H8203 Shᵉphaṭyâh (Shephatiah): Identified as the "son of Abital" (2 Samuel 3:4; 1 Chronicles 3:3), Shephatiah is Abital's son, directly linking her to King David's lineage through their child (Ezra 2:4; 2 Chronicles 21:2).
- H802 ʼishshâh (woman/wife): Abital is explicitly identified as a "wife of King David" in her base definition, aligning with the usage of this term to denote a woman in a spousal relationship (1 Chronicles 3:3; Genesis 2:24).
The usage of H37 primarily functions within the recording of royal lineage.
- Genealogical Record: Abital's inclusion in the lists of David's wives and sons underscores the biblical emphasis on precise genealogical records, particularly for royal and significant figures (2 Samuel 3:4; 1 Chronicles 3:3).
- Personal Identity: As a proper name, Abital contributes to the specific identification of Shephatiah through his mother, reinforcing the importance of both paternal and maternal lines in establishing identity within the ancient Israelite family structure.
- Meaning of Name: The name's base definition "father of dew (i.e. fresh)" offers insight into ancient naming conventions, though the biblical text does not elaborate on a broader theological interpretation of Abital herself.
In summary, H37 refers to Abital, a specific individual identified as a wife of King David and the mother of Shephatiah H8203. Her appearances are limited to genealogical contexts, highlighting her place within the royal family's documented history. The term, while referring to a proper name, implicitly points to the biblical practice of meticulously recording lineage and family relationships.
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