The Hebrew word Mîyâmin, represented by H4326, is a proper name for three Israelites, with the variants Miamin and Mijamin. It is a specific name rather than a common term, appearing only 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage is confined to genealogical lists and records of individuals involved in significant moments in Israel's history.
In the biblical narrative, H4326 identifies specific individuals within priestly and lay families. In 1 Chronicles, the name is associated with the organization of priestly service, where the sixth lot fell to Mijamin 1 Chronicles 24:9. The name also appears in lists from the time of Ezra and Nehemiah. One individual named Miamin is listed among the sons of Parosh Ezra 10:25. In Nehemiah, a man named Mijamin is among those who sealed the covenant Nehemiah 10:7, and a Miamin is listed with Maadiah and Bilgah as part of a priestly group Nehemiah 12:5.
Several related words help place H4326 within its historical context of priestly duties and lineage:
- H4441 Malkîyâh (king of (i.e. appointed by) Jah): This name appears alongside Mijamin in the priestly courses, with Malchijah receiving the fifth lot 1 Chronicles 24:9, and also in the list of the sons of Parosh Ezra 10:25.
- H1083 Bilgah (desistance): An Israelite name listed directly with Miamin in the priestly list found in Nehemiah, suggesting a close association Nehemiah 12:5.
- H8345 shishshîy (sixth): This ordinal number is used to specify the exact priestly course assigned to Mijamin, highlighting the structured nature of temple service 1 Chronicles 24:9.
The theological weight of H4326 is found not in the name's definition but in the roles of the individuals who carried it.
- Priestly Order: The connection of Mijamin to the sixth priestly course highlights the importance of order and designated roles in the worship and service of God as established for Israel 1 Chronicles 24:9.
- Covenant Commitment: An individual named Mijamin is recorded among those who sealed the covenant, signifying a personal and communal act of faithfulness and rededication to God's law Nehemiah 10:7.
- Genealogical Identity: The appearance of the name in genealogical records, such as among the sons of Parosh Ezra 10:25, reinforces the biblical theme of lineage as a core component of Israel's identity and history.
In summary, H4326 is the name of several Israelites whose presence in scripture is tied to key aspects of national life. While not a common word, its appearances in priestly rosters, covenantal ceremonies, and family lineages demonstrate the value placed on individual identity and participation within the community of faith. The name serves as a marker for those who were part of the organized worship and communal commitments of Israel.
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