### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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}}`.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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