probably patrial from an unused noun meaning slenderness; a Mithnite, or inhabitant of Methen; Mithnite.
Transliteration:Mithnîy
Pronunciation:mith-nee'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word `{{H4981}}` (Mithnîy) is a gentilic noun, indicating an inhabitant of a specific place. Its base definition describes it as "probably patrial from an unused noun meaning slenderness; a Mithnite, or inhabitant of Methen." This suggests that the term identifies someone originating from a location known as "Methen." While the etymological root hints at a characteristic of "slenderness," perhaps describing the topography of the region or the physical build of its inhabitants, this is a speculative derivation from an "unused noun." Therefore, the primary and most certain semantic range of `{{H4981}}` is simply "one who belongs to or comes from Methen," functioning purely as a geographical descriptor for an individual.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H4981}}` (Mithnîy) appears only once in the entire Hebrew Bible, specifically in [[1 Chronicles 11:43]]. In this solitary instance, it is used to identify one of David's mighty men: "Jehiel the Mithnite." The context is a comprehensive list of the valiant warriors who served King David, highlighting their names and, in many cases, their places of origin or tribal affiliations. The inclusion of "Jehiel the Mithnite" within this esteemed roster signifies his recognized status and contribution to David's kingdom. However, the text provides no further narrative details about Jehiel himself or the location of Methen. Its singular appearance limits any deeper contextual analysis beyond its function as a proper descriptor within a historical record of significant individuals.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its nature as a unique gentilic proper noun with a single biblical occurrence, `{{H4981}}` does not have direct semantic synonyms or antonyms within the Hebrew lexicon. However, it relates conceptually to several biblical themes:
* **Gentilic Names:** It belongs to a category of names that denote origin or affiliation, similar to "the Gittite" (e.g., Ittai the Gittite, [[2 Samuel 15:19]]) or "the Hittite" (e.g., Uriah the Hittite, [[2 Samuel 11:3]]). These names underscore the diverse backgrounds of individuals integrated into Israelite society or serving its leaders.
* **Lists of Valiant Men:** The context of [[1 Chronicles 11:43]] places `{{H4981}}` within a broader biblical tradition of cataloging heroes and key figures (e.g., David's mighty men in [[2 Samuel 23]], or lists of those who returned from exile in Ezra and Nehemiah). Such lists emphasize the importance of individual contribution and divine remembrance.
* **Identity through Place:** The word reinforces the ancient understanding of identity being intrinsically linked to one's place of origin, even when the place itself remains obscure to modern readers.
### Theological Significance
While `{{H4981}}` itself, as a proper noun, does not carry inherent theological weight, its presence in the biblical text offers several indirect theological insights:
* **Divine Meticulousness:** The inclusion of "Jehiel the Mithnite" in the inspired record, even without further elaboration, speaks to God's meticulous attention to detail and His preservation of individual identities within the grand narrative of salvation history. Every person, no matter how briefly mentioned, holds a place in God's sovereign plan.
* **Inclusivity in God's Service:** The diversity of David's mighty men, drawn from various tribes and even non-Israelite origins (like Ittai the Gittite), suggests that God utilizes individuals from all backgrounds for His purposes. Jehiel the Mithnite represents one such individual, whose unique origin did not preclude his service in a pivotal role.
* **Historical Veracity:** The specificity of such names and origins lends credibility to the biblical narrative as a historical account rooted in real people and places, affirming the tangible reality of God's interaction with humanity within time and space.
### Summary
The Hebrew word `{{H4981}}` (Mithnîy) is a gentilic noun meaning "an inhabitant of Methen," likely derived from an unused root implying "slenderness." Its sole biblical appearance is in [[1 Chronicles 11:43]], where it identifies "Jehiel the Mithnite" as one of King David's valiant warriors. This single occurrence primarily serves to precisely name an individual within a historical roster, without providing further narrative details about the person or the place. Conceptually, it aligns with other gentilic names and the biblical practice of listing significant figures. Theologically, its presence underscores God's meticulous record-keeping, the inclusivity of those called to serve Him, and the historical groundedness of the biblical narrative.
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