### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H5834 (עֶזְרָה, ʻEzrâh) functions primarily as a proper noun, designating a male individual within the biblical genealogies. Its form is identical to H5833 (עֶזְרָה), which is a common noun meaning "help, succor, assistance." Therefore, the name "Ezrah" inherently conveys the meaning of "help" or "she is help," or more broadly, "God is help." This semantic connection is vital, as biblical names often carry prophetic, descriptive, or aspirational significance, reflecting the circumstances of birth, the character of the individual, or the parents' faith in divine provision.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun H5834 appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah:
* [[1 Chronicles 4:17]]: "And the sons of Ezrah were Jether, and Mered, and Epher, and Jalon; and she bare Miriam, and Shammai, and Ishbah the father of Eshtemoa."
In this context, Ezrah is identified as a father, and his sons are listed, further detailing the intricate lineage of Judah. While no narrative details are provided about Ezrah's life or deeds, his inclusion in these meticulous genealogies underscores his place within the covenant community. The chronicler's emphasis on lineage serves to establish the continuity of God's people and the fulfillment of His promises through specific family lines, ultimately pointing towards the Davidic dynasty and the Messiah.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and significant related word is H5833 (עֶזְרָה), the common noun for "help" or "assistance," from which the name Ezrah derives its meaning. This root עזר (ʻazar) is foundational in expressing divine aid. Other closely related terms include:
* H5828 (עֵזֶר, ʻēzer): "help, helper," famously used to describe Eve as a "helper suitable" for Adam ([[Genesis 2:18]]) and frequently applied to God as the ultimate Helper ([[Psalm 33:20]], [[Psalm 121:2]]).
* H5835 (עֶזְרָא, ʻEzrāʼ): The name "Ezra," the renowned scribe and priest, whose name also means "help" or "Yahweh helps." This strong connection highlights a consistent theme of divine assistance woven into the very names of God's people.
The concept of "help" is pervasive throughout Scripture, often referring to God's intervention on behalf of His people, His provision in times of need, and His sustaining grace.
### Theological Significance
Though Ezrah is a minor figure in the biblical narrative, the meaning of his name, "help," carries profound theological weight. It serves as a quiet testimony to a central biblical truth: God is the ultimate source of help and assistance for His people. The inclusion of such a name in the sacred genealogies, particularly within the lineage of Judah, implicitly affirms God's providential care and His active involvement in the lives of individuals and the history of His covenant people. Even in the absence of a detailed biography, the name itself declares a theological statement about divine sustenance. It resonates with the broader biblical theme of Yahweh as the Helper who delivers, sustains, and guides His chosen ones through every generation, ultimately leading to the promised "help" of the Messiah. The name Ezrah, therefore, stands as a small but significant reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness and His character as the one who provides all necessary help.
### Summary
H5834 (עֶזְרָה, ʻEzrâh) is a proper noun, the name of an Israelite, which means "help" due to its identity with H5833. It appears only once in [[1 Chronicles 4:17]] within a genealogy of the tribe of Judah, identifying Ezrah as a father. While a brief mention, the name itself carries deep theological significance, reflecting the pervasive biblical theme of God as the ultimate Helper (H5828). This connection is further amplified by the similar name H5835 (Ezra), underscoring the consistent divine attribute of providing aid and assistance to His people throughout their history. Thus, Ezrah's name, though belonging to a seemingly obscure figure, serves as a quiet yet powerful affirmation of God's enduring help and faithfulness within His covenant.
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