The Hebrew word Maʻăday, represented by H4572, is a proper name meaning ornamental. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. The name serves to identify a specific Israelite who lived during the post-exilic period described in the book of Ezra.
The single biblical reference to Maʻăday H4572 is found in a genealogical list within the book of Ezra. He is mentioned as one of "the sons of Bani" Ezra 10:34. This passage documents individuals from various families in Israel. Maadai is recorded alongside his kinsmen, Amram and Uel, as part of this specific family group.
Several related words appear in the same verse, providing context for Maadai's identity and lineage:
- H1137 Bânîy (built): This is the name of Maadai's ancestral family. As the name of five Israelites, Bani is a prominent name in the post-exilic community, appearing in various lists in Nehemiah as well Nehemiah 9:4.
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes the direct genealogical link, identifying Maadai as one of the "sons of Bani" Ezra 10:34. It is a foundational term used throughout scripture to denote lineage and family relationship.
- H6019 ʻAmrâm (high people): Amram is listed as a contemporary of Maadai within the family of Bani Ezra 10:34. The name is also famously carried by the father of Moses and Aaron Exodus 6:18.
- H177 ʼÛwʼêl (wish of God): Uel is named as another of the sons of Bani alongside Maadai and Amram, with his sole appearance in scripture being this verse Ezra 10:34.
The theological weight of H4572 is not derived from its definition but from its inclusion in the biblical record.
- Historical Documentation: The name Maadai is preserved as part of the detailed records of the Israelite community during the time of Ezra. This demonstrates the importance of individual and family identity within the history of God's people.
- Community Membership: By being named in the list of the sons of Bani, Maadai is formally identified as a member of a specific family line within Israel Ezra 10:34.
- Contextual Naming: While Maadai's name means ornamental, it functions primarily as an identifier. It appears alongside names with significant meanings, such as Uel (wish of God) and Amram (high people), contributing to the rich personal history recorded in the Old Testament.
In summary, Maʻăday H4572 is a name whose significance is tied entirely to its singular appearance in scripture. It identifies an Israelite from the family of Bani during the time of Ezra's reforms Ezra 10:34. Although the name itself means ornamental, its primary purpose within the text is not symbolic but historical, serving as a vital detail in the genealogical records that affirm the continuity and accountability of the people of Israel.
TRV