from מַחֲסֶה and יָהּ; refuge of (i.e. in) Jah; Machsejah, an Israelite; Maaseiah.
Transliteration:Machçêyâh
Pronunciation:makh-say-yaw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun `{{H4271}}` (מַחְסֵיָה, Machçêyâh), transliterated as Maaseiah or Machseiah, is a theophoric compound name. It is derived from two distinct elements: `{{H4268}}` (מַחֲסֶה, *machaseh*), meaning "refuge," "shelter," or "place of safety," and `{{H3050}}` (יָהּ, *Yah*), the shortened form of the divine name YHWH. Therefore, the name literally signifies "Refuge of Yah" or "Yah is my refuge." This etymology encapsulates a profound theological conviction, wherein the individual or their family acknowledges the God of Israel as their ultimate protector, sanctuary, and source of security. As a personal name, its semantic range is primarily defined by this declarative statement of divine refuge, reflecting a common practice in ancient Israel of embedding theological truths within nomenclature.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Maaseiah appears multiple times throughout the Old Testament, referring to various individuals across different historical periods, from the monarchical era to the post-exilic return. These occurrences highlight the enduring theological significance of the name's meaning within Israelite society.
* In the pre-exilic period, we encounter Maaseiah as a "king's son" who was tragically killed by Zichri during the reign of King Ahaz of Judah ([[2 Chronicles 28:7]]).
* During the time of Jeremiah, several individuals bear this name: the father of Zephaniah the priest ([[Jeremiah 21:1]]), the father of the false prophet Zedekiah ([[Jeremiah 29:21]]), the father of Shallum, a keeper of the door ([[Jeremiah 35:4]]), and the father of Neriah, who was Baruch's brother ([[Jeremiah 51:59]]).
* In the post-exilic period, particularly during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, the name is prevalent among those involved in the rebuilding and restoration efforts. A Maaseiah is listed among those who had taken foreign wives ([[Ezra 10:18]], [[Ezra 10:21]], [[Ezra 10:23]], [[Ezra 10:30]], [[Ezra 10:40]]), and another is a repairer of the wall ([[Nehemiah 3:23]]). A prominent Maaseiah stood beside Ezra when the Law was read ([[Nehemiah 8:4]]) and was among the Levites who helped the people understand the Law ([[Nehemiah 8:7]]). Others include a chief who sealed the covenant ([[Nehemiah 10:25]]), a Judahite dwelling in Jerusalem ([[Nehemiah 11:5]]), a Benjaminite ([[Nehemiah 11:7]]), and two individuals participating in the dedication of Jerusalem's wall ([[Nehemiah 12:41-42]]). A priest named Maaseiah, son of Adiel, is also mentioned in the genealogical records ([[1 Chronicles 9:12]]).
The diverse roles and fates of these individuals, from royal figures to priests, Levites, and ordinary citizens, underscore the widespread appeal and spiritual resonance of a name that proclaimed God as a refuge, regardless of the specific circumstances of the bearer. The consistent use of this name across centuries attests to a deeply ingrained theological understanding among the Israelites regarding divine protection.
### Related Words & Concepts
Understanding `{{H4271}}` is enhanced by examining its constituent parts and related concepts:
* **`{{H4268}}` (מַחֲסֶה, *machaseh*):** This is the core noun meaning "refuge." It frequently appears in the Psalms to describe God as a secure dwelling place and an ultimate sanctuary (e.g., [[Psalm 91:2]], [[Psalm 142:5]]). The concept of God as a refuge is central to Israelite theology of trust and divine protection.
* **`{{H3050}}` (יָהּ, *Yah*):** This is the abbreviated form of the sacred divine name YHWH. Its inclusion in personal names is common in Hebrew, forming many theophoric names (e.g., Isaiah, Jeremiah, Hezekiah). Its presence signifies a direct and personal connection to the God of Israel.
* **`{{H2620}}` (חָסָה, *chasah*):** This verbal root, from which *machaseh* is derived, means "to take refuge," "to trust in," or "to flee for protection." It describes the human act of seeking shelter and security in God, often implying an act of faith and dependence.
* **Theophoric Names:** `{{H4271}}` belongs to the broader category of theophoric names, which integrate a divine name or attribute. These names serve as miniature theological statements, expressing the faith, hope, or gratitude of the parents who bestowed them, often reflecting core beliefs about God's character and His relationship with humanity.
### Theological Significance
The name "Machçêyâh" carries profound theological weight, articulating a foundational truth of Israelite faith: God is the ultimate refuge for His people. In a world fraught with danger, uncertainty, and human vulnerability, this name stands as a powerful declaration of divine sovereignty, faithfulness, and protective care.
It reflects the covenantal relationship where God pledges to be a shield, stronghold, and deliverer for those who trust in Him. The repeated appearance of individuals bearing this name throughout Israel's history suggests a continuous theological conviction within the community concerning God's role as their sanctuary. Even when individuals named Maaseiah faced adversity, made regrettable choices (such as taking foreign wives, as seen in Ezra), or met tragic ends, the name itself serves as an enduring testament to the faith of their forebears and the unchanging truth of God's character as a refuge.
The name implicitly calls for and teaches an active trust and dependence on God for safety and deliverance from all forms of danger, both physical and spiritual. It reinforces the biblical teaching that true security and peace are found not in human strength, worldly alliances, or material possessions, but in reliance upon the Lord, who alone is an unfailing refuge (cf. [[Psalm 27:1]], [[Psalm 46:1]]).
### Summary
`{{H4271}}`, "Machçêyâh" (Maaseiah), is a significant Hebrew proper noun meaning "Refuge of Yah" or "Yah is my refuge." This name is a composite of `{{H4268}}` (*machaseh*, "refuge") and `{{H3050}}` (*Yah*, the abbreviated divine name). Its multiple occurrences in the Old Testament, spanning various historical periods and roles, underscore its widespread use and deep theological resonance within Israel. The name powerfully conveys the core biblical truth that God is the ultimate source of protection, safety, and security for His people. It stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the Israelites, who recognized and proclaimed God as their unfailing sanctuary, thereby encouraging trust and dependence on divine provision and care in all circumstances.
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