### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H4619}}`, transliterated as *Maʻats* (מַעַץ), is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root עָצָה (ʻatsah), which carries the primary meaning of "to shut," "to close," or "to press." Consequently, the nominal form *Maʻats* signifies "closure," "stopping," or "firmness." As a personal name, it would have been bestowed with this intrinsic meaning, perhaps reflecting a characteristic of the individual, circumstances of their birth, or a hope for their future. Unlike common nouns or verbs, a proper noun's semantic range is inherently narrow, focusing on the identity of the named individual, yet its etymological root provides a layer of deeper meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name *Maʻats* (Maaz) occurs only once in the Hebrew Bible, found within the extensive genealogies of the book of Chronicles.
* **[[1 Chronicles 2:27]]**: "The sons of Ram, the firstborn of Jerahmeel, were Maaz, Jamin, and Eker." Here, Maaz is identified as one of the three sons of Ram, who himself is a son of Jerahmeel, a descendant of Judah through Hezron. This placement firmly embeds Maaz within the lineage of Judah, the tribe from which the Davidic monarchy and ultimately the Messiah would emerge. The context is purely genealogical, serving to meticulously record the tribal and family lines of Israel. While no narrative details are provided about Maaz himself, his inclusion in this sacred record attests to his historical existence and his place within God's chosen people. The significance of his name, "closure" or "firmness," might subtly reflect a characteristic valued in the lineage, such as steadfastness or the completion of a family line segment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for `{{H4619}}` is its root verb עָצָה (ʻatsah), which is `{{H6095}}`. This root is found in various forms and contexts, often conveying the idea of counsel that is "closed" or "firmly decided," as in "to counsel" or "to advise." For instance, the noun עֵצָה (ʻetsah), derived from the same root, means "counsel" or "advice" (e.g., [[Isaiah 11:2]]). While the direct meaning of `{{H4619}}` is "closure," the underlying concept of firmness and resolve from the root עָצָה is palpable. Other names in the biblical record also convey concepts of strength or steadfastness, such as Boaz (`{{H1162}}`, "in him is strength") or Eitan (`{{H386}}`, "firm, enduring"). The practice of naming children with significant meanings was pervasive in ancient Israel, often reflecting hopes, divine interventions, or the nature of the child (e.g., Isaac, "he laughs"; Jacob, "he grasps the heel"). Thus, Maaz's name, "closure" or "firmness," fits within this broader cultural and theological pattern of meaningful nomenclature.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun appearing in a genealogy, the theological significance of *Maʻats* (Maaz) is not found in direct theological teaching but in its contribution to the larger biblical narrative. First, his inclusion in the detailed genealogies of [[1 Chronicles]] underscores the meticulous nature of God's preservation of the lineages of Israel, particularly the line of Judah. These genealogies serve as a vital historical and theological link, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, especially concerning the coming Messiah from the tribe of Judah. The very act of recording these names, however obscure some individuals may seem, highlights God's sovereignty over history and His detailed knowledge of every individual within His plan. Second, the meaning of the name itself, "closure" or "firmness," though not explicitly expounded, can subtly resonate with divine attributes. It might evoke the steadfastness of God's character, the firmness of His decrees, or the ultimate completion of His redemptive purposes. While speculative concerning the individual Maaz, the divine inspiration behind the inclusion of such names in the sacred text suggests that even seemingly minor details contribute to the grand tapestry of God's unfolding plan.
### Summary
*Maʻats* (מַעַץ, `{{H4619}}`) is a unique Hebrew proper noun, a personal name meaning "closure" or "firmness," derived from the root עָצָה (`{{H6095}}`). It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 2:27]], where Maaz is listed as a son of Ram, a descendant within the tribe of Judah. While no narrative is associated with him, his inclusion in the meticulously preserved genealogies highlights God's faithfulness in maintaining the lineage crucial for the fulfillment of His covenant promises, particularly concerning the Messiah. The etymological meaning of his name, "closure" or "firmness," subtly echoes themes of divine steadfastness and the ultimate completion of God's purposes, underscoring the profound significance embedded even in the names recorded in the sacred Scriptures.
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