The Hebrew name ʻÛwthay, represented by H5793, means succoring. This name appears 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible and is used to identify two different Israelites. Its presence is found within important genealogical records.
The two individuals named ʻÛwthay are mentioned in distinct historical contexts. The first appears in a detailed lineage recorded in 1 Chronicles 9:4, where he is identified as "Uthai the son of Ammihud, the son of Omri, the son of Imri, the son of Bani, of the children of Pharez the son of Judah." This places him firmly within the tribe of Judah. The second ʻÛwthay is listed among those returning from the Babylonian exile with Ezra, noted as one of "the sons also of Bigvai" Ezra 8:14. He is mentioned alongside Zabbud and seventy other males.
Several related words help establish the context and identity of ʻÛwthay:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is fundamental to both mentions of Uthai, used repeatedly to construct the genealogical chain that establishes his tribal identity and family line (1 Chronicles 9:4, Ezra 8:14).
- H3063 Yᵉhûwdâh (Judah): This word connects the first Uthai to the prominent tribe of Judah, tracing his ancestry back to the patriarch 1 Chronicles 9:4.
- H902 Bigvay (Bigvai): This name identifies the family group to which the second Uthai belonged, situating him among the Israelites who returned from exile Ezra 8:14.
The significance of ʻÛwthay is tied to the contexts in which the name appears, highlighting themes of heritage and restoration.
- Genealogical Identity: The inclusion of the first Uthai in the extensive genealogies of 1 Chronicles serves to document and preserve the lineage of the families of Judah. His lineage is traced through Pharez H6557 back to Judah H3063, affirming his place within the covenant people 1 Chronicles 9:4.
- Post-Exilic Restoration: The second Uthai is recorded as part of the community returning to Jerusalem. Being listed among the sons of Bigvai H902 in Ezra's census underscores the organized effort to re-establish the nation and its worship after the exile Ezra 8:14.
- The Meaning of "Succoring": The name itself means succoring. While the text does not describe his specific actions, his presence in these lists of rebuilding and heritage reflects the broader theme of God's help and support in restoring His people.
In summary, ʻÛwthay H5793 is a personal name meaning "succoring" that identifies two men in the Old Testament. Though not central figures, their inclusion in Scripture is significant. One is recorded in the genealogies of Judah H3063, establishing tribal heritage 1 Chronicles 9:4, while the other is counted among the exiles who returned to rebuild their homeland Ezra 8:14. The name appears in passages dedicated to affirming Israel's identity and documenting its restoration.
TRV