The Hebrew word ʻIbrîy, represented by H5681, is the proper name Ibri. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible 1 Chronicles 24:27. The name identifies an Israelite individual within a specific Levitical lineage.
The sole use of H5681 in the biblical narrative is within a genealogical record. It appears in a list of the sons of Merari through Jaaziah, where Ibri is named alongside Beno, Shoham, and Zaccur 1 Chronicles 24:27. This context places Ibri specifically within the priestly line of Merari.
The context of H5681 connects it to several other names and terms within the Levitical genealogy:
- H4847 Mᵉrârîy (bitter; Merari, an Israelite): Ibri is listed as a descendant of Merari, who was one of the sons of Levi Genesis 46:11. This establishes the specific priestly lineage.
- H3269 Yaʻăzîyâhûw (emboldened of Jah; Jaazijah, an Israelite): Listed as the direct ancestor of Ibri's family group within the clan of Merari 1 Chronicles 24:27.
- H2139 Zakkûwr (mindful; Zakkur, the name of seven Israelites): Zaccur is named as a brother of Ibri in the same genealogical listing 1 Chronicles 24:27.
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is used multiple times in the verse to establish the relationships between Merari, Jaaziah, and his descendants, including Ibri 1 Chronicles 24:27.
The theological significance of H5681 is derived entirely from its context within the Levitical genealogies of 1 Chronicles.
- Priestly Lineage: The inclusion of Ibri in the line of Merari H4847 underscores the importance of maintaining a record of the priestly families designated for service to God. The sons of Merari were given specific duties related to the tabernacle Numbers 3:36.
- Divine Order: The detailed genealogies in Chronicles reflect a divinely established order and continuity for Israel's worship. The naming of individuals like Ibri demonstrates that God's plan is carried out through specific people and families chosen for their roles 1 Chronicles 23:6.
- Faithful Record: The existence of this record, naming even lesser-known individuals, points to the faithfulness of God in preserving His people. The overseers from the sons of Merari were noted for doing their work faithfully 2 Chronicles 34:12.
In summary, H5681 ʻIbrîy is a proper name appearing a single time in Scripture. Its importance is not found in a broad conceptual meaning, but in its specific function within a Levitical genealogy. The name Ibri serves as a data point that helps establish the family line of Merari through Jaaziah 1 Chronicles 24:27. It illustrates how the biblical record carefully documents the individuals and families designated for specific roles in the life and worship of Israel, reinforcing the structured nature of the covenant community.
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