### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÂdîyn**, represented by `{{H5720}}`, is the proper name **Adin**, used to identify two Israelites. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The name functions as a genealogical marker, identifying a specific family that was prominent during the return of the Israelites from exile.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5720}}` appears exclusively in the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, documenting the return from Babylonian captivity. The "children of **Adin**" are mentioned in two separate census lists of returning families, with one count numbering four hundred fifty and four [[Ezra 2:15]] and a later one numbering six hundred fifty and five [[Nehemiah 7:20]]. A specific descendant, Ebed the son of Jonathan, is listed as a son of **Adin** returning with fifty males [[Ezra 8:6]]. The name **Adin** also appears among the leaders who sealed the covenant with God [[Nehemiah 10:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context surrounding the family of Adin:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên**: This word, meaning a **son** or "children," is used to establish the lineage of Adin's descendants in the census lists ([[Ezra 2:15]], [[Nehemiah 7:20]]). It is crucial for understanding the family structure of the returning exiles.
* `{{H902}}` **Bigvay**: The name of an Israelite, **Bigvai**, who is listed directly with **Adin** as one of the leaders sealing the covenant [[Nehemiah 10:16]]. Their inclusion together points to their shared role in the community's rededication.
* `{{H5651}}` **ʻEbed**: The name of an Israelite, **Ebed**, who is specifically identified as a descendant of **Adin** [[Ezra 8:6]]. This connection provides a direct link between the family head and a later generation.
* `{{H2145}}` **zâkâr**: Translated as **males**, this term is used to count the specific members of Adin's family returning with Ebed, specifying fifty **males** [[Ezra 8:6]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5720}}` is rooted in its role within the post-exilic restoration of Israel.
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The name Adin serves as a key identifier for a family whose lineage was preserved through the Babylonian exile. The meticulous counting of the "children of **Adin**" underscores the importance of heritage and tribal identity in re-establishing the nation ([[Ezra 2:15]], [[Nehemiah 7:20]]).
* **Covenant Faithfulness:** By being included in the list of those who sealed the covenant, **Adin** represents a family committed to upholding God's law during a critical period of national renewal [[Nehemiah 10:16]].
* **Community Rebuilding:** The lists that include Adin's descendants are central to the narrative of rebuilding Jerusalem's society. The specific numbers associated with the family, such as the "four hundred fifty and four" [[Ezra 2:15]], were part of the practical organization of the restored community.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5720}}` **ʻÂdîyn** is the proper name of an important Israelite family head. Its use is confined to the historical accounts of Israel's return from exile. The name functions as a vital marker for tracing lineage, documenting the census of the restored community, and highlighting the commitment of key families to the renewal of the covenant with God.
TRV