### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word לִקְחִי (Liqchîy, `{{H3949}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a masculine personal name. Its meaning is derived from the root לָקַח (laqach, `{{H3947}}`), meaning "to take, to receive, to grasp, to acquire." From this verb, the noun לֶקַח (leqach, `{{H3948}}`) is formed, which signifies "instruction, teaching, doctrine, understanding," or "that which is received." Therefore, the name Liqchîy carries the semantic weight of "learned" or "one who receives instruction/teaching." It can also imply "my taking" or "my receiving," but in the context of a name, the sense of being "learned" or "instructive" is most fitting, suggesting a person characterized by the acquisition of wisdom or the capacity to impart it.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name לִקְחִי (Liqchîy, `{{H3949}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the extensive genealogies recorded in the book of Chronicles.
* [[1 Chronicles 7:19]]: "The sons of Shemida were Ahian, Shechem, Likhi, and Aniam."
In this sole occurrence, Liqchîy is listed as one of the four sons of Shemida, who was a son of Manasseh, one of Joseph's sons. This places Liqchîy within the lineage of the tribe of Manasseh, a significant tribe in Israel's history. As a figure in a genealogical list, no specific actions, deeds, or further biographical details are provided for Liqchîy. His inclusion serves primarily to trace the tribal lines and demonstrate the continuity of God's covenant people. The context is purely genealogical, embedding him within the broader narrative of Israel's tribal structure and heritage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for לִקְחִי (Liqchîy, `{{H3949}}`) is to its root verb and related noun:
* **לָקַח (laqach, `{{H3947}}`):** This fundamental Hebrew verb means "to take, receive, grasp, acquire." It is used in a vast array of contexts, from taking a wife ([[Genesis 2:23]]) to receiving instruction ([[Proverbs 1:3]]). Its breadth of meaning underscores the active process of acquisition, whether physical or intellectual.
* **לֶקַח (leqach, `{{H3948}}`):** This noun, directly derived from לָקַח, specifically denotes "instruction, teaching, doctrine, understanding." It frequently appears in wisdom literature, particularly the book of Proverbs, where it refers to the valuable knowledge and moral guidance that one "receives" or "takes in" ([[Proverbs 1:5]], [[Proverbs 4:2]]). The association of Liqchîy with this word suggests a connection to the reception of wisdom or the embodiment of instruction.
Conceptually, Liqchîy's name links to the broader biblical themes of:
* **Wisdom and Understanding:** The emphasis on "instruction" and "learning" resonates with the biblical call to acquire wisdom, which is often personified as a divine gift ([[Proverbs 2:6]]).
* **Hearing and Receiving God's Word:** The act of "taking" or "receiving" is paramount in the covenant relationship, where Israel is called to hear and obey God's commands ([[Deuteronomy 6:4-9]]). A name like Liqchîy subtly echoes this theological imperative.
### Theological Significance
While Liqchîy himself is a silent figure in the biblical narrative, appearing only in a genealogy, the theological significance of his name lies in its etymological root and the broader biblical emphasis it evokes. The name "Learned" or "One Who Receives Instruction" points to a highly valued characteristic within the biblical worldview.
In ancient Israel, the transmission of knowledge, particularly divine instruction (Torah), was central to identity and community. To be "learned" in this context was not merely intellectual prowess but a spiritual disposition—a readiness to receive and internalize God's truth. The very existence of such a name, even in a minor figure, subtly underscores the importance of wisdom and the reception of divine teaching within God's people. It suggests that these qualities were esteemed and perhaps even hoped for in one's offspring.
Furthermore, the meticulous recording of genealogies in books like Chronicles is itself a theological act. It demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, His preservation of the lineage through which the Messiah would come, and His intimate knowledge of every individual within His chosen people. Even those whose lives are not detailed are known to God and play a part in His overarching plan. Liqchîy, by virtue of his name and his place in the sacred record, stands as a quiet testament to the value of instruction and the divine ordering of human history.
### Summary
לִקְחִי (Liqchîy, `{{H3949}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "learned" or "one who receives instruction," derived from the root לָקַח (laqach, `{{H3947}}`) and the noun לֶקַח (leqach, `{{H3948}}`). It appears only once in the Bible, in [[1 Chronicles 7:19]], as a son of Shemida in the tribe of Manasseh. Though a minor figure in a genealogical list, the name itself resonates with the biblical emphasis on acquiring wisdom, receiving divine instruction, and the importance of teaching within the covenant community. Liqchîy's inclusion in the sacred record highlights God's meticulous care for His people's lineage and the quiet significance of individuals within His grand redemptive narrative.
TRV