### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Nᵉthanʼêl**, represented by `{{H5417}}`, means **given of God**. It appears **14 times** across **14 unique verses** in scripture. The name is used for ten different Israelites, identifying them as key figures in the history and structure of the nation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, individuals named `{{H5417}}` appear in various leadership and service roles. Nethaneel, the `son` `{{H1121}}` of Zuar, is frequently mentioned as a `captain` `{{H5387}}` and `prince` `{{H5387}}` of the tribe of `Issachar` `{{H3485}}` ([[Numbers 2:5]], [[Numbers 7:18]]). Others named Nethaneel served in sacred capacities, such as the `priest` `{{H3548}}` who blew the `trumpets` `{{H2689}}` before the `ark` `{{H727}}` of `God` `{{H430}}` [[1 Chronicles 15:24]] and the chief Levite who gave thousands of animals for `passover offerings` `{{H6453}}` [[2 Chronicles 35:9]]. The name also belongs to a `prince` `{{H8269}}` sent to `teach` `{{H3925}}` in Judah [[2 Chronicles 17:7]], the fourth son of Jesse [[1 Chronicles 2:14]], and a Levite musician [[Nehemiah 12:36]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the roles and relationships of those named Nethaneel:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This word is essential for establishing lineage, as most individuals named Nethaneel are identified by their father, such as "Nethaneel the `son` of Zuar" [[Numbers 1:8]].
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (prince, captain): This title denotes a high level of authority and leadership, used to describe Nethaneel's position as `prince` of the tribe of `Issachar` `{{H3485}}` [[Numbers 7:18]].
* `{{H3548}}` **kôhên** (priest): This term defines the sacred role of the Nethaneel who participated in the ceremony of bringing the `ark` `{{H727}}` of `God` `{{H430}}` by blowing the `trumpets` `{{H2689}}` [[1 Chronicles 15:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H5417}}` is rooted in its literal meaning, "given of God."
* **Divine Appointment for Leadership:** The name is repeatedly associated with men in positions of authority, such as the `prince` `{{H5387}}` of the tribe of `Issachar` `{{H3485}}` [[Numbers 7:18]] and a `prince` `{{H8269}}` sent to `teach` `{{H3925}}` God's law [[2 Chronicles 17:7]]. This implies that their leadership was a divine provision for the people.
* **Gifted for Sacred Service:** Several individuals named Nethaneel were consecrated for roles in worship. This includes a `priest` `{{H3548}}` who ministered before the `ark` `{{H727}}` [[1 Chronicles 15:24]] and a Levite leader who gave generously for `passover offerings` `{{H6453}}` [[2 Chronicles 35:9]], highlighting that service to God is a divine gift.
* **Providential Lineage:** The name appears in significant genealogies, identifying Nethaneel as the `son` `{{H1121}}` of Jesse and brother of `David` `{{H1732}}` [[1 Chronicles 2:14]], and as the father of Shemaiah the `scribe` `{{H5608}}` [[1 Chronicles 24:6]]. This places the "given of God" concept within the context of God building the families and structures of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, **Nᵉthanʼêl** `{{H5417}}` is a name that consistently signifies a person "given of God" for a specific purpose. The men who bore this name served as tribal leaders, priests, teachers, and musicians. They are found in contexts of civic administration, sacred worship before the `ark` `{{H727}}`, and within the lineage of King `David` `{{H1732}}`. The name `{{H5417}}` thus serves as a recurring reminder of God's provision for Israel through divinely appointed individuals.
TRV