### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAzrîyqâm**, represented by `{{H5840}}`, means **help of an enemy**. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** and is the name given to four distinct Israelites in the biblical record. The name itself is derived from words for "help" and "enemy," giving it a unique and complex meaning within the scriptures.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H5840}}` appears in several different historical and genealogical contexts. One individual named Azrikam was a high-ranking official, the **governor** `{{H5057}}` of the **house** `{{H1004}}`, who was **slew**n `{{H2026}}` by **Zichri** `{{H2147}}`, a **mighty man** `{{H1368}}` of **Ephraim** `{{H669}}` [[2 Chronicles 28:7]]. In other instances, the name is part of a lineage record. An Azrikam is listed as a **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Neariah** `{{H5294}}` and a brother to **Hezekiah** `{{H2396}}` [[1 Chronicles 3:23]]. Another is recorded as a **Levite** `{{H3881}}` in the line of **Merari** `{{H4847}}` ([[1 Chronicles 9:14]], [[Nehemiah 11:15]]). A fourth Azrikam is named as one of the **six** `{{H8337}}` sons of **Azel** `{{H682}}` in a genealogy that is recorded twice ([[1 Chronicles 8:38]], [[1 Chronicles 9:44]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to understand the context of the individuals named Azrikam:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This term is central to every mention of Azrikam, establishing his identity through paternal lineage, whether as a **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Neariah** `{{H5294}}`, **Hasshub** `{{H2815}}`, or **Azel** `{{H682}}`.
* `{{H5057}}` **nâgîyd** (governor): This word defines the prominent political role held by one Azrikam, identifying him as a **commander** or **chief** ruler of the king's house [[2 Chronicles 28:7]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (Levite): This designates the sacred tribal identity of the Azrikam mentioned in the genealogies of [[1 Chronicles 9:14]] and [[Nehemiah 11:15]], connecting him to the priestly and temple service lineage.
* `{{H2026}}` **hârag** (to smite with deadly intent): This verb describes the violent end of Azrikam the governor, highlighting the political turmoil and judgment taking place in the narrative of [[2 Chronicles 28:7]].
### Theological Significance
While a personal name, the occurrences of `{{H5840}}` carry weight by their context in the scriptural record.
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The appearance of Azrikam in multiple, detailed genealogies underscores the biblical emphasis on preserving historical and tribal identity. These records establish lineage within the tribe of Judah [[1 Chronicles 3:23]], the tribe of Benjamin [[1 Chronicles 8:38]], and the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` [[1 Chronicles 9:14]].
* **Political Accountability:** The account of Azrikam, the **governor** `{{H5057}}` of the **house** `{{H1004}}`, being killed alongside the **king's** `{{H4428}}` **son** `{{H1121}}`, serves as a stark illustration of judgment upon the leadership of Judah during a time of apostasy [[2 Chronicles 28:7]].
* **Sacred Heritage:** By being named in the lineage of **Merari** `{{H4847}}`, one of the sons of Levi, an Azrikam is tied to the covenantal role of the Levites in Israel's worship and community life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5840}}` is more than just a name; it is a marker identifying four separate individuals whose lives are woven into the fabric of Israel's history. From a **Levite** `{{H3881}}` ensuring the continuity of his line to a powerful **governor** `{{H5057}}` who met a violent end, the name Azrikam appears in contexts of lineage, leadership, and divine judgment. These mentions serve as key data points in the national and spiritual chronicles of ancient Israel.
TRV