from מִקְנֶה and יָהּ; possession of Jah; Miknejah, an Israelite; Mikneiah.
Transliteration:Miqnêyâhûw
Pronunciation:mik-nay-yaw'-hoo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name `{{H4737}}` (Miqnêyâhûw), transliterated as Mikneiah, is a compound theophoric name, rich in theological significance. It is derived from two primary components: `{{H4735}}` (miqneh) and `{{H3050}}` (Yah), a shortened form of the divine name YHWH (`{{H3068}}`).
The root `{{H4735}}` (miqneh) fundamentally signifies "possession," "property," or "acquisition." Its semantic range extends to include livestock, land, or any form of acquired wealth. It speaks to something that is owned, purchased, or gained.
The second component, `{{H3050}}` (Yah), is the abbreviated divine name, representing the God of Israel. When combined, `{{H4737}}` (Miqnêyâhûw) literally means "Possession of Yah" or "Yah Possesses." This name carries a dual theological implication: either the individual named is a possession belonging *to* Yahweh, or Yahweh is the one who *possesses* (in the sense of acquiring or owning) the individual. Both interpretations underscore a profound relationship of divine ownership and sovereignty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H4737}}` (Mikneiah) appears exclusively in the book of 1 Chronicles, specifically in the context of King David's organization of the Levites for service in the tabernacle and the bringing of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem.
Mikneiah is mentioned twice:
* [[1 Chronicles 15:18]]: "and with them their brethren of the second degree, Zechariah, Ben, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, and Jeiel, the gatekeepers." Here, Mikneiah is listed among the gatekeepers for the Ark.
* [[1 Chronicles 15:21]]: "and Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps on the Sheminith to lead." In this verse, Mikneiah is identified as one of the musicians, specifically playing a harp "on the Sheminith," likely a lower octive or a particular musical mode, to lead the worship.
The context reveals Mikneiah as a Levite, entrusted with significant responsibilities in the sacred service of God. As a gatekeeper, he was responsible for the security and access to the holy space where the Ark resided. As a musician, he was integral to the corporate worship of Israel, leading the people in praise before God. His name, "Possession of Yah," resonates deeply with his role. He was not merely a servant, but one who was "owned" by Yahweh, dedicated to His sacred purposes. His life and service were a tangible expression of his divine belonging.
### Related Words & Concepts
The name `{{H4737}}` (Miqnêyâhûw) connects to several key biblical words and theological concepts:
* **`{{H4735}}` (miqneh):** This base word for "possession" is used extensively in the Old Testament to refer to livestock (e.g., [[Genesis 13:2]], [[Genesis 46:32]]), acquired property (e.g., [[Leviticus 22:11]]), and even the wealth of a nation. In the context of Mikneiah's name, it elevates the concept of "possession" from material goods to a spiritual relationship, where a person is the Lord's treasured property.
* **`{{H3050}}` (Yah) / `{{H3068}}` (YHWH):** The divine name component signifies the covenant God of Israel. Its inclusion in a personal name emphasizes the intimate and unique relationship between God and the individual, often reflecting a prayer, a statement of faith, or a divine blessing concerning the child. Names like Isaiah ("Yahweh is salvation"), Jeremiah ("Yahweh exalts"), and Elijah ("My God is Yahweh") similarly declare aspects of God's character or relationship.
* **`{{H5459}}` (segullah):** This term, often translated as "treasured possession" or "special possession," describes Israel's unique status before God (e.g., [[Exodus 19:5]], [[Deuteronomy 7:6]]). The concept underlying Mikneiah's name aligns perfectly with the idea of being God's *segullah*—a people or individual uniquely set apart and valued by God.
* **`{{H5159}}` (nachalah):** Meaning "inheritance" or "heritage," this word often refers to the land God gave to Israel. However, it can also describe God's people as His inheritance (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 4:20]], [[Psalm 28:9]]). Mikneiah's name reflects an aspect of this, where an individual is part of God's cherished heritage.
* **Divine Ownership:** Beyond specific words, the name embodies the theological concept of divine ownership. Throughout Scripture, God asserts His claim over creation (e.g., [[Psalm 24:1]]) and, more specifically, over His chosen people (e.g., [[Isaiah 43:1]]). This ownership is not tyrannical but covenantal, implying protection, provision, and purpose.
### Theological Significance
The name `{{H4737}}` (Miqnêyâhûw), "Possession of Yah," carries profound theological weight, extending beyond the individual Mikneiah to universal truths about God and humanity.
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Claim:** The name powerfully declares God's absolute sovereignty. It is a statement that God is the ultimate owner, not only of the individual Mikneiah but of all things. This divine ownership is foundational to biblical theology, asserting that humanity belongs to God by creation and, for believers, by redemption.
2. **Covenantal Identity and Security:** To be "Possession of Yah" signifies a unique, intimate, and protected relationship. It speaks of being chosen, set apart, and cherished by God. This identity offers profound security, as one who is God's possession is under His direct care, protection, and provision. The Lord guards His own.
3. **Purpose and Consecration:** For Mikneiah, his name underscored his consecrated role in the tabernacle service. As God's possession, his life was not his own but dedicated to divine purposes. This principle applies to all believers: being God's "possession" implies a calling to live a life of worship and service, reflecting His glory in every sphere.
4. **Redemptive Theology:** While an Old Testament name, its core meaning resonates with New Testament themes of redemption. Believers are "bought with a price" (cf. [[1 Corinthians 6:20]], [[1 Corinthians 7:23]]), becoming God's purchased possession. This transformation from self-ownership or bondage to sin to being God's own is central to the Gospel.
5. **Humility and Trust:** The name fosters humility, reminding the individual that their identity and worth are derived from God's claim upon them, not from personal achievement. It also encourages trust, as one who is God's possession can rest in His unfailing faithfulness and love.
### Summary
The Hebrew name `{{H4737}}` (Miqnêyâhûw), Mikneiah, is a theophoric compound meaning "Possession of Yah" or "Yah Possesses." It combines the root `{{H4735}}` (miqneh), signifying "possession" or "property," with `{{H3050}}` (Yah), the divine name.
Biblically, Mikneiah is a Levite mentioned in 1 Chronicles as a gatekeeper and musician during King David's time, specifically involved in the sacred task of bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. His name profoundly reflects his consecrated service, as he was literally engaged in handling the sacred possessions of God, serving as one who was himself God's cherished possession.
Theologically, the name underscores God's ultimate sovereignty and ownership over His people, establishing a covenantal identity that denotes security, purpose, and consecration. It speaks to the profound truth that believers are uniquely cherished by God, called to live lives of humble service and trust, rooted in their identity as His treasured possession.
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