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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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