### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻOzzîyʼêlîy**, represented by `{{H5817}}`, is a patronymic term for the **Uzzielites**. It refers collectively to the descendants of Uzziel. This specific family name appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its role within the genealogical records of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical context for `{{H5817}}` is consistently within lists detailing the families of the Levites. In both of its occurrences, the **Uzzielites** are named as one of the four key families descending from Kohath `{{H6955}}`. These passages serve to establish the specific clans that constitute the Kohathites `{{H6956}}`, with the Uzzielites being listed alongside the Amramites `{{H6020}}`, the Izeharites `{{H3325}}`, and the Hebronites `{{H2276}}` ([[Numbers 3:27]]; [[1 Chronicles 26:23]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The term **Uzzielites** is understood through its relationship to the larger Kohathite lineage:
* `{{H6955}}` **Qᵉhâth** (Kohath): Defined as "allied; Kehath, an Israelite," he is the ancestor from whom the Uzzielites descend. He is named as a son of Levi [[Genesis 46:11]], establishing the Levitical roots of this family line.
* `{{H6956}}` **Qŏhâthîy** (Kohathites): As "a Kohathite (collectively) or descendants of Kehath," this term encompasses the Uzzielites. The Kohathites had specific duties, including bearing the sanctuary [[Numbers 10:21]].
* `{{H6020}}` **ʻAmrâmîy** (Amramite): The descendants of Amram, listed as a brother family to the Uzzielites within the Kohathite clan [[Numbers 3:27]].
* `{{H3325}}` **Yitshârîy** (Izeharites): The descendants of Jitshar, also listed as a brother family to the Uzzielites [[Numbers 3:27]].
* `{{H2276}}` **Chebrôwnîy** (Hebronites): The descendants from Chebron, another of the four major Kohathite families mentioned with the Uzzielites [[Numbers 3:27]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5817}}` is tied to the structure and function of the Levitical priesthood.
* **Genealogical Identity:** The term firmly places the **Uzzielites** within the tribe of Levi as descendants of Kohath, one of Levi's three sons [[Genesis 46:11]].
* **Familial Division:** The listing in [[Numbers 3:27]] is part of a census that organizes the Levites into their distinct families. This ordering was essential for assigning roles and responsibilities.
* **Part of the Kohathites:** As one of the families of the Kohathites `{{H6956}}`, the **Uzzielites** belonged to the Levitical division responsible for the most sacred tasks, such as the burden of the sanctuary and its holy things [[Numbers 4:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻOzzîyʼêlîy** `{{H5817}}` is not just a name but a marker of identity within the nation of Israel. It designates a specific family clan, the **Uzzielites**, whose importance is found in their defined place within the Kohathite branch of the Levites. The word's usage in scripture highlights the detailed organization of the Levitical families for the service of the tabernacle.
TRV