xlit Mâʻai corrected to Mâʻay; probably from מֵעֶהxlit mêʻâh corrected to mêʻeh; sympathetic; Maai, an Israelite; Maai.
Transliteration:Mâʻay
Pronunciation:maw-ah'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4597}}` (Mâʻay), transliterated as Maai, functions as a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from `{{H4578}}` (mêʻeh), which primarily signifies "bowels," "inward parts," or "intestines." However, in Hebrew thought, the "bowels" (מֵעֶה) are frequently understood as the seat of deep emotion, affection, and compassion. Thus, the name Maai, with its implied possessive suffix, can be interpreted figuratively as "my bowels" in the sense of "my compassion," "my sympathy," or "my tender affections." The semantic range for this proper noun is therefore narrow in its direct application (referring to a specific individual), but rich in its etymological implication, pointing to a character trait of profound inner feeling or empathy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Maai `{{H4597}}` appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Nehemiah:
* **[[Nehemiah 12:36]]**: "And his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azareel, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man of God, and Ezra the scribe before them."
In this sole occurrence, Maai is listed among the priests who participated in the grand dedication ceremony of the rebuilt wall of Jerusalem during the post-exilic period. He is specifically mentioned as being part of the second great thanksgiving choir, which marched to the right, led by Ezra. The context highlights a period of spiritual and national restoration, where the people of Israel recommitted themselves to the Lord and His covenant. Maai's inclusion among the priests who played musical instruments underscores his role in the celebratory worship and the formal re-establishment of sacred practices. While the text provides no further biographical details about Maai, the very presence of his name in this significant list suggests his active participation and standing within the priestly community at a pivotal moment in Israel's history. The potential meaning of his name, "My Compassion," could subtly reflect a desired quality for those serving in the priesthood, embodying the tender-heartedness and empathy required for mediating between God and His people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word to `{{H4597}}` (Mâʻay) is its root, `{{H4578}}` (mêʻeh), which denotes the "bowels" or "inward parts." This term is frequently used metaphorically in the Hebrew Bible to convey deep emotional states, particularly those of compassion, pity, yearning, or distress. Examples include:
* **Compassion/Pity**: In [[Genesis 43:30]], Joseph's "bowels yearned" for his brother Benjamin, signifying profound emotional tenderness. Similarly, in [[1 Kings 3:26]], the true mother's "bowels yearned upon her son," indicating deep maternal compassion.
* **Distress/Grief**: The term can also express intense suffering or anguish, as seen in [[Lamentations 1:20]] ("my bowels are troubled") and [[Lamentations 2:11]] ("my bowels are consumed").
* **Divine Compassion**: While not directly using `{{H4578}}` for God's compassion, the concept is closely related to terms like *rachamim* (from *rechem*, "womb"), which also signifies deep, visceral mercy. The idea that God's compassion stems from His "inward parts" is a consistent biblical theme (e.g., [[Isaiah 63:15]], [[Jeremiah 31:20]]).
Thus, the name Maai connects to a rich tapestry of biblical concepts concerning the human and divine capacity for deep feeling, empathy, and mercy. It stands in relation to other Hebrew words denoting compassion, such as *chesed* (loyal love, kindness) and *rachamim* (tender mercy).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of a name like Maai, derived from "bowels" signifying "compassion," is profound, even for a figure mentioned only once. Firstly, it underscores the biblical understanding that names often carried intrinsic meaning, reflecting character, aspiration, or a divine attribute. Maai's name, whether given at birth as a hope or acquired later as a descriptor, points to the high value placed on inner disposition and empathy within the community of faith.
Secondly, in the context of a priest, the name "My Compassion" takes on added resonance. Priests were mediators of God's presence and grace to the people. A priest whose very name suggests "sympathy" or "compassion" would embody a crucial quality for pastoral care, intercession, and understanding the plight of those they served. It subtly reinforces the idea that true ministry is not merely ritualistic but flows from a heart of deep feeling and concern, mirroring the compassionate heart of God Himself (e.g., [[Exodus 34:6]]).
Finally, Maai's name serves as a quiet reminder of the profound emotional depth inherent in biblical faith. It highlights that God relates to humanity not just through rules and laws, but through a visceral, compassionate love, and that He desires His servants to reflect this same tenderheartedness in their interactions and service. The dedication of the wall, a moment of national repentance and renewed covenant, was a time when such compassionate leadership would have been particularly vital.
### Summary
`{{H4597}}` (Mâʻay), or Maai, is a unique proper name appearing once in the Hebrew Bible. Derived from `{{H4578}}` (mêʻeh), "bowels," it carries the figurative meaning of "my compassion" or "my sympathy," reflecting the Hebrew understanding of the inward parts as the seat of deep emotion. Maai is listed in [[Nehemiah 12:36]] as a priest participating in the dedication of Jerusalem's wall, playing musical instruments in a thanksgiving choir. The name's etymology connects it to a broader biblical concept of profound emotional depth, particularly divine and human compassion. Theologically, Maai's name subtly emphasizes the importance of empathy and tenderheartedness, especially for those in spiritual leadership, underscoring that true service to God and humanity flows from a compassionate heart, mirroring God's own character.
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