from עוּת; succoring; Uthai, the name of two Israelites; Uthai.
Transliteration:ʻÛwthay
Pronunciation:oo-thah'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma H5793, transliterated as ʻÛwthay, is a proper masculine noun. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the root עוּת (ʻûwth), signifying "succoring" or "my help." While the more common `{{H5792}}` עוּת means "to be perverse" or "to distort," the etymology for this proper name points to a distinct or less common sense of the root, related to the Arabic 'ātha, meaning "to help" or "to succor." Thus, ʻÛwthay embodies the concept of providing aid, support, or relief. As a personal name, it reflects a hope or recognition of assistance, either from God or through human means.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Uthai appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, referring to two distinct individuals, both associated with the post-exilic period and the re-establishment of the Jewish community in Judah.
1. **Uthai, son of Ammihud:** This Uthai is mentioned in [[1 Chronicles 9:4]] as a descendant of Perez, son of Judah, and one of the prominent inhabitants of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. The passage lists those who returned and settled in the city, emphasizing the re-population and re-establishment of the community. His lineage is traced through Ammihud, Omri, Imri, and Bani. This genealogical record underscores the continuity of the tribes and families in the land, even after the disruption of the exile.
2. **Uthai, son of Bigvai:** This Uthai is found in [[Ezra 8:14]]. He is listed among the heads of families who returned with Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem. He brought with him seventy male members of his family. This occurrence places Uthai in the context of the second major wave of returnees, those who accompanied Ezra to strengthen the religious and social fabric of the restored community. The list in Ezra 8 details the leaders who took responsibility for the perilous journey and the rebuilding efforts.
In both contexts, Uthai is presented as a participant in the vital process of restoration following the exile. While the name's meaning ("succoring" or "my help") is not explicitly commented upon in the text, it subtly resonates with the overarching narrative of God's help in bringing His people back to their land and enabling them to rebuild their lives and sanctuary. The individuals bearing this name were themselves part of the "succor" or "help" for the struggling community.
### Related Words & Concepts
The core concept of H5793—"succoring" or "help"—connects it to a broader biblical lexicon concerning divine and human assistance. The most common Hebrew word for "help" or "aid" is `{{H5828}}` (ezer), often used to describe God as Israel's helper (e.g., [[Psalm 33:20]], [[Psalm 121:2]]). Other related terms include `{{H3467}}` (yasha'), meaning "to save" or "deliver," which often implies bringing help in a dire situation.
While H5793 derives from a less common sense of עוּת than `{{H5792}}` (which means "to pervert" or "to oppress"), the very existence of a proper name signifying "succor" from this root highlights the nuanced semantic possibilities within Hebrew. It underscores that words, especially proper nouns, can draw from various facets or even homonymous roots to convey meaning. The concept of "help" is fundamental to the covenant relationship, where God promises to be with His people and provide for them, often through the agency of faithful individuals.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of H5793 lies primarily in the meaning of the name itself: "succoring" or "my help." While Uthai is not a major figure in biblical history, the very presence of this name among those who returned from exile is noteworthy. In a period of immense challenge, vulnerability, and rebuilding, the concept of "help" was paramount.
The name Uthai can serve as a subtle reminder of several theological truths:
1. **Divine Providence:** God often provides help and succor to His people through human instruments. Individuals like Uthai, who participated in the return and rebuilding, were part of God's plan to restore His people.
2. **Community and Mutual Aid:** The post-exilic community was dependent on mutual support and assistance. The name "succoring" could reflect a communal value or a personal commitment to aiding the collective effort.
3. **God as the Ultimate Helper:** Ultimately, all human help is a reflection of God's own character as the one who "succors" His people. Even if the name does not explicitly contain a divine element, it points to a quality that is foundational to God's relationship with Israel (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 33:29]], [[Psalm 46:1]]). The return from exile was itself an act of divine succor.
### Summary
H5793, ʻÛwthay, is a Hebrew proper name meaning "succoring" or "my help," derived from a root עוּת signifying aid. It appears in the biblical text referring to two individuals in the post-exilic period: Uthai, a descendant of Judah living in Jerusalem ([[1 Chronicles 9:4]]), and Uthai, a son of Bigvai who returned with Ezra from Babylon ([[Ezra 8:14]]). Both figures participated in the critical re-establishment of the Jewish community. The name's meaning resonates with the broader biblical theme of divine and human assistance, particularly crucial during the challenging era of restoration. While not a central theological concept in itself, the name Uthai subtly highlights the vital role of help and succor, ultimately pointing to God as the ultimate provider of aid for His people.
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