The Hebrew word Mᵉʻôwnôthay, represented by H4587, is the name of an Israelite. The base definition is "plural of מְעוֹנָה; habitative; Meonothai, an Israelite; Meonothai." It is a rare term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse, where it functions exclusively as a proper name within a genealogy.
The sole biblical appearance of H4587 is in a genealogical record in 1 Chronicles 4:14. In this context, Meonothai is identified as a progenitor, establishing a specific family line. The verse states, "And Meonothai begat Ophrah" 1 Chronicles 4:14. His name is presented in parallel with another lineage, connecting his descendants to a community defined by its vocation as craftsmen.
Several related words from its only context help establish its meaning within the narrative:
- H3205 yâlad (to bear young; causatively, to beget): This is the action attributed to Meonothai, establishing him as the father of Ophrah in the biblical record 1 Chronicles 4:14.
- H6084 ʻOphrâh (female fawn; Ophrah, the name of an Israelite and of two places in Palestine): This is the name of the son begotten by Meonothai, defining his direct lineage 1 Chronicles 4:14.
- H8304 Sᵉrâyâh (Jah has prevailed; Serajah, the name of nine Israelites): An individual whose lineage is listed immediately after Meonothai's, illustrating the parallel structure of the genealogical account 1 Chronicles 4:14.
- H2798 Chărâshîym (mechanics, the name of a valley in Jerusalem; Charashim, craftsmen): This name for a valley is associated with the descendants listed alongside Meonothai's family, identifying their community as one of craftsmen H2791.
The significance of H4587 is rooted in its function within the biblical historical record.
- Genealogical Marker: The name Meonothai serves as a vital link in the ancestral chains recorded in Chronicles, preserving the history of a specific family.
- Community Identity: The verse connects Meonothai's lineage to a place and a trade, "the valley of Charashim" 1 Chronicles 4:14, which was known for its craftsmen H2791. This highlights the importance of family, location, and vocation in ancient Israelite identity.
- Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of this name, however brief, is part of the larger biblical effort to document the families that comprised the nation of Israel, affirming their continuity through generations.
In summary, H4587 is a personal name that appears only once in scripture. Its role is specific and historical, serving to identify Meonothai as the father of Ophrah within a detailed genealogy. While not a major theological term, its inclusion is crucial for understanding the biblical emphasis on preserving lineage and recording the identity of the families who made up the people of Israel.
TRV