### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nᵉphûwshᵉçîym**, represented by `{{H5300}}`, identifies **Nephushesim, a Temple-servant**. The name also appears with a marginal reading of **Nephisesim**. It is found **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible and is noted as being an alternate form for `{{H5304}}` Nᵉphîyçîym.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical context, `{{H5300}}` is used exclusively within genealogical lists documenting the families who returned from the Babylonian exile. It is always preceded by the phrase "the children of," signifying a patriarchal line. The name appears as **Nephusim** in the list found in Ezra [[Ezra 2:50]] and as **Nephishesim** in the parallel list in Nehemiah [[Nehemiah 7:52]]. In both instances, this family is enumerated among those designated for service in the temple.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of this family name:
* `{{H5304}}` **Nᵉphîyçîym**: This is the primary form of the name, also defined as "a Temple-servant." Both `{{H5300}}` and `{{H5304}}` are tagged to the name in its two biblical occurrences, indicating they are variants of the same word ([[Ezra 2:50]], [[Nehemiah 7:52]]).
* `{{H1121}}` **bên**: Meaning **a son**, this word establishes the genealogical nature of the lists where `{{H5300}}` is found, in the phrase "The children of" ([[Ezra 2:50]], [[Nehemiah 7:52]]).
* `{{H4586}}` **Mᵉʻûwnîy**: This name, for the **Mehunim** or **Meunim**, appears alongside Nephusim/Nephishesim in both scriptural lists, suggesting they were part of the same returning community ([[Ezra 2:50]], [[Nehemiah 7:52]]).
* `{{H1153}}` **Bᵉçay**: The name of one of the **Nethinim**, or Temple servants, whose children are listed with the children of Nephishesim [[Nehemiah 7:52]].
* `{{H619}}` **ʼAçnâh**: The name of another one of the **Nethinim**, listed alongside the family of Nephusim [[Ezra 2:50]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5300}}` is rooted in its role within the post-exilic community.
* **Restoration of Worship:** As a name identified with a "Temple-servant," its inclusion in the records of Ezra and Nehemiah underscores the importance of re-establishing proper worship and service at the Second Temple.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** The meticulous recording of this family line, among others, demonstrates the value placed on heritage and assigned roles within the restored nation of Israel.
* **Community of Servants:** Its consistent listing with other families of Temple servants, such as the children of Besai `{{H1153}}`, Asnah `{{H619}}`, and Meunim `{{H4586}}`, highlights a collective identity among those dedicated to sacred duties.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5300}}` is not a common noun but the proper name of a specific family. Its importance is historical and genealogical, identifying a line of Temple servants who returned to Jerusalem after the exile. Through its appearance in the lists of Ezra and Nehemiah, the name **Nᵉphûwshᵉçîym** represents the continuity of sacred roles and the organized restoration of the covenant community.
TRV