### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAbdîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H5661}}`, is a proper name meaning **servant of God**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Though rare, its composition from the Hebrew words for "servant" and "God" gives it significant weight, pointing to an identity defined by devotion and service.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H5661}}` is in a genealogical record in [[1 Chronicles 5:15]]. Here, **Abdiel** is listed as the father of Ahi and the son of Guni. The verse also provides a key detail about his role, identifying him as the **chief** `{{H7218}}` of the **house** `{{H1004}}` of their **fathers** `{{H1}}`. This context places **Abdiel** not just within a lineage but as a person of recognized authority and leadership within his clan.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of Abdiel's life is clarified by several related words found in the same verse:
* `{{H277}}` **ʼĂchîy** (brotherly; Achi): The name of Abdiel's son, highlighting the theme of kinship and family connection [[1 Chronicles 5:15]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is used to establish the genealogical chain, linking Abdiel to his father, Guni, and his own **son**, Ahi [[1 Chronicles 5:15]]. It underscores the importance of generational continuity.
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh** (chief, head): This term designates Abdiel's position of authority within his family. It signifies being the principal leader, a concept also applied to God as the **head** above all [[1 Chronicles 29:11]].
* `{{H1004}}` **bayith** (family, house): This defines the sphere of Abdiel's leadership, the "house of their fathers." This word is central to biblical identity, as seen in the declaration, "as for me and my **house**, we will serve the LORD" [[Joshua 24:15]].
### Theological Significance
The name `{{H5661}}` and its context offer several theological insights:
* **Identity in Service:** The name **Abdiel** itself means "servant of God," framing personal identity as being rooted in one's relationship and service to God. This connects to the instruction for Solomon my **son** to "serve him with a perfect heart" [[1 Chronicles 28:9]].
* **Godly Headship:** Abdiel is described as a **chief** `{{H7218}}` of his father's **house** `{{H1004}}`. This demonstrates a model of leadership that begins within the family unit and implies a responsibility to guide one's household in a godly manner.
* **Generational Legacy:** The placement of **Abdiel** within a genealogy highlights the biblical value of heritage. It reflects the duty to pass on faith and identity to one's **sons** `{{H1121}}` and future generations, as commanded in scripture [[Deuteronomy 4:9]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻAbdîyʼêl** `{{H5661}}` is far more than a name in a genealogical list. Its meaning, "servant of God," paired with its biblical context as a **chief** of a family **house**, provides a concise but powerful illustration of an identity defined by service to God and leadership within the family. Even in its single appearance, it encapsulates the ideal of a life whose purpose and authority flow from a devoted relationship with God.
TRV