or נָתוּן (Ezra 8:17), (the proper form as passive participle), from נָתַן; one given, i.e. (in the plural only); the Nethinim, or Temple-servants (as given to that duty); Nethinims.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Nâthîyn**, represented by `{{H5411}}`, refers to **one given**. Used in the plural only, it identifies the Nethinim, or **Temple-servants**, who were given to that duty. An alternate form, נָתוּן, is found in [[Ezra 8:17]]. The word appears **18 times** across **15 unique verses**, primarily in records of the community returning to Jerusalem.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the **Nethinims** `{{H5411}}` are consistently listed as a distinct class of people involved in the restoration of Israel after the exile. They are mentioned alongside **priests** `{{H3548}}`, **Levites** `{{H3881}}`, **porters** `{{H7778}}`, and **singers** `{{H7891}}` as part of the community that returned to their cities ([[Ezra 2:70]], [[Ezra 7:7]]). These were among the first inhabitants to dwell in their possessions after the return [[1 Chronicles 9:2]]. The Nethinim dwelt in specific areas, including the district of Ophel ([[Nehemiah 3:26]], [[Nehemiah 11:21]]). Their role was explicitly tied to temple service, as David and the princes had appointed them "for the service of the Levites" [[Ezra 8:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the Nethinims' role within the community's religious structure:
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (a Levite or descendant of Levi): The Nethinim were specifically appointed to serve the **Levites**, indicating a supportive role within the broader temple hierarchy [[Ezra 8:20]].
* `{{H8334}}` **shârath** (to minister): Ezra sought the Nethinim to bring **ministers** for the house of God, defining their function as one of active service and contribution to worship [[Ezra 8:17]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): The Nethinim are listed together with the children of Solomon's **servants**, reinforcing their status as a group dedicated to service ([[Ezra 2:58]], [[Nehemiah 11:3]]).
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (a priest): The Nethinim are consistently included in census lists and community records with **priests**, showing they were a recognized part of the personnel of the house of God [[1 Chronicles 9:2]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5411}}` is found in its representation of a group dedicated to divine service.
* **Appointed for Service:** The name itself, meaning "one given," points to their identity. They were specifically appointed by David and the princes to assist the Levites, making them a group set apart for a sacred function [[Ezra 8:20]].
* **Integral to the Restored Community:** The Nethinim were counted as part of the covenant community that "had separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God" [[Nehemiah 10:28]]. They were not peripheral but were foundational members who resettled in their cities [[1 Chronicles 9:2]].
* **A Class of Temple Servants:** Their role as **ministers** `{{H8334}}` for the house of God was essential for the re-establishment of organized worship in Jerusalem after the exile [[Ezra 8:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5411}}` is more than just a label for a group of people; it defines a specific and consecrated role. The **Nethinims** were the "given ones," a class of Temple-servants appointed to support the Levites. As an integral part of the post-exilic community, they highlight the importance of dedicated service in the worship and function of the house of God.
TRV