from עֶבֶד and אֵל; servant of God; Abdiel, an Israelite; Abdiel. Compare עַבְדְּאֵל.
Transliteration:ʻAbdîyʼêl
Pronunciation:ab-dee-ale'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun ʻAbdîyʼêl (`{{H5661}}`) is a compound name, rich in theological meaning. It is formed from two primary components: ʻeved (`{{H5650}}`), meaning "servant," "slave," or "bondservant," and ʼel (`{{H410}}`), a common Semitic word for "God" or "deity," specifically referring to the God of Israel in the biblical context. Therefore, the literal and core meaning of ʻAbdîyʼêl is "Servant of God." As a proper personal name, its semantic range is confined to this specific identification, but the theological implications of its constituent elements are profound, pointing to a relationship of devotion, submission, and loyalty to the Divine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name ʻAbdîyʼêl (`{{H5661}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles. It is found in [[1 Chronicles 5:15]]: "Ahi, son of Abdiel, son of Guni, chief of the house of their fathers." In this sole biblical occurrence, Abdiel is identified as an ancestor within the genealogy of the tribe of Gad. He is specifically noted as the father of Ahi, who is described as a "chief of the house of their fathers." The context of [[1 Chronicles 5]] is a detailed genealogical record of the Transjordanian tribes (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh), often highlighting their settlement, military strength, and faithfulness. While the text provides no narrative details about Abdiel himself, his inclusion in this genealogical list suggests he was a figure of some standing or significance within his lineage, possibly a patriarch or a prominent individual whose descent was deemed worthy of record.
### Related Words & Concepts
The analysis of ʻAbdîyʼêl is greatly enhanced by examining its constituent parts and related terms:
* **ʻeved (`{{H5650}}`):** This foundational word is central to understanding ʻAbdîyʼêl. It denotes a relationship of service, obedience, and often, deep devotion. Many pivotal figures in the Old Testament are referred to as "servants of the Lord" (e.g., Moses, David, the prophets), signifying a life consecrated to God's will and purpose. The name ʻAbdîyʼêl encapsulates this ideal.
* **ʼel (`{{H410}}`):** The divine element in the name, ʼel, specifies that the service is directed towards the one true God, distinguishing it from service to human masters or false deities.
* **Theophoric Names:** ʻAbdîyʼêl is a prime example of a theophoric name, which were common in ancient Israel. These names incorporate a divine element (such as ʼel, yah, or yahu) and often express a theological statement, a declaration of faith, or a hope concerning the individual's relationship with God. Other examples include Samuel ("heard of God"), Elijah ("My God is Yahweh"), and Daniel ("God is my judge").
* **ʻabdeʼel (`{{H5662}}`):** The Strong's entry explicitly cross-references ʻAbdîyʼêl with ʻabdeʼel. This is another Hebrew name with the identical core meaning of "Servant of God," though it appears in a different biblical context (Jeremiah 36:26, as the father of Shelemiah, a royal official). The slight orthographical difference (the presence of a yod in ʻAbdîyʼêl) might indicate a minor linguistic variation or simply two distinct individuals bearing very similar, yet profoundly meaningful, names. The shared root underscores the pervasive and significant concept of "servant of God" in Israelite naming conventions and theology.
### Theological Significance
The name ʻAbdîyʼêl, "Servant of God," carries immense theological significance. In a culture where names often conveyed identity, character, or destiny, such a name could reflect a family's profound faith, their aspirations for their child, or a recognition of God's ultimate sovereignty. The concept of "servant" in biblical theology is far from demeaning; it often signifies a position of honor, trust, and intimacy with God. Those called "servants of the Lord" are frequently chosen individuals through whom God accomplishes His purposes (e.g., Abraham, Moses, David, the Suffering Servant in Isaiah). To be a "servant of God" implies a privileged status, one of being called, consecrated, and utilized by the Almighty. The name ʻAbdîyʼêl thus embodies the theological principle that true human flourishing and purpose are found not in self-assertion but in humble, devoted service and obedience to the Creator. It serves as a timeless reminder that the highest calling for humanity is to live in faithful servanthood to God.
### Summary
ʻAbdîyʼêl (`{{H5661}}`) is a Hebrew proper name meaning "Servant of God," derived from the Hebrew words ʻeved (`{{H5650}}`, "servant") and ʼel (`{{H410}}`, "God"). This theophoric name is found only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[1 Chronicles 5:15]], identifying Abdiel as an ancestor in the genealogy of the tribe of Gad and the father of Ahi, a chief of his family house. Although the biblical text provides no narrative details about Abdiel, his name itself is deeply significant. It encapsulates a central theological ideal of ancient Israel: the profound and honorable relationship of devoted service to God. The name ʻAbdîyʼêl, alongside similar names like ʻabdeʼel (`{{H5662}}`), underscores the high value placed upon being a "servant of God" – a role that in the biblical worldview often signifies intimacy, trust, and a life consecrated to divine purpose.
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