### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻEzer**, represented by `{{H5827}}`, is defined as the name of two Israelites and is derived from a root word meaning help. It appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the provided scripture, where it identifies a specific individual in a genealogical record.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, **ʻEzer** is listed in a genealogy alongside Zabad, Shuthelah, and Elead. The verse recounts a tragic event where these men were slain by the men of Gath. The reason for the fatal conflict is stated directly: "because they came down to take away their cattle" [[1 Chronicles 7:21]]. Thus, the name **ʻEzer** is preserved in scripture as part of a record of violent death during a raid for livestock.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the passage provide critical context to the story of **Ezer**:
* `{{H2026}}` **harag** (slew): This word, meaning "to smite with deadly intent," describes the violent fate of **Ezer** and his kinsmen [[1 Chronicles 7:21]].
* `{{H1661}}` **Gath**: This identifies the home of the perpetrators as "Gath, a Philistine city," situating the conflict within the broader history of Israelite-Philistine relations [[1 Chronicles 7:21]].
* `{{H4735}}` **miqneh** (cattle): Defined as "livestock" or "property," this word clarifies that the deadly dispute was over material possessions [[1 Chronicles 7:21]].
* `{{H1121}}` **ben** (son): Meaning "a son (as a builder of the family name)," this term is used for others in the list, establishing the genealogical context into which **Ezer** is placed [[1 Chronicles 7:21]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative weight of `{{H5827}}` is found entirely within its specific historical context:
* **A Record of Conflict:** The story of **Ezer** is a stark reminder of the dangers of the time. His name is tied to a specific instance of violence where men from Gath slew him and his kinsmen during a raid [[1 Chronicles 7:21]].
* **Genealogical Significance:** Though his story is brief and ends in tragedy, the inclusion of **Ezer**'s name in the chronicle serves the important purpose of documenting a family line. His death is a recorded event within the history of his people.
* **Cause of Strife:** The passage explicitly notes that the conflict arose because **Ezer** and his companions "came down to take away their cattle" [[1 Chronicles 7:21]], highlighting how disputes over property and livestock could lead to fatal consequences.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻEzer** `{{H5827}}` is not used to convey its root meaning of "help" but functions exclusively as a personal name within a single, specific narrative. Its sole appearance marks an individual who was part of a lineage but was slain in a conflict with the men of Gath. The story surrounding **Ezer** provides a concise but vivid snapshot of violent inter-group conflict over resources in ancient Israel, preserved forever within a genealogical record [[1 Chronicles 7:21]].
TRV