The Hebrew word ʻĂṭârâh, represented by H5851, is a proper name identifying an Israelitess. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the biblical record. Its sole function is to name a specific individual within a genealogical account.
The single appearance of H5851 is in the genealogies of the book of Chronicles. In this context, Atarah is identified as a wife of a prominent figure in the tribe of Judah. The scripture states, "Jerahmeel had also another wife, whose name was Atarah; she was the mother of Onam" 1 Chronicles 2:26. Her mention serves to establish the lineage of her son, Onam, through his father, Jerahmeel.
The identity of Atarah is established through her relationships, which are defined by several key Hebrew words:
- H3396 Yᵉrachmᵉʼêl (Jerahmeel): This is the name of Atarah's husband, a son of Hezron and a significant figure in the Judean lineage 1 Chronicles 2:9. Her identity in the text is tied directly to his.
- H802 ʼishshâh (wife): This word defines Atarah's formal relationship to Jerahmeel. The text specifies she is "another" wife, distinguishing her from a previous one 1 Chronicles 2:26.
- H517 ʼêm (mother): This term describes her role as the one who gives birth to Onam. It is a foundational word for family structure, used in commandments such as honoring one's father and mother Exodus 20:12.
- H208 ʼÔwnâm (Onam): The name of Atarah's son. Her inclusion in the genealogy is for the purpose of identifying the maternal line of Onam 1 Chronicles 2:26.
While the name H5851 itself carries no explicit theological doctrine, its inclusion in scripture holds significance.
- Genealogical Precision: Atarah's presence in the lineage of Jerahmeel demonstrates the meticulous care with which the biblical authors recorded ancestry. Her role as a wife H802 and mother H517 was vital for the continuation of this family line.
- Maternal Identity: Her primary identifiers are familial—wife to Jerahmeel and mother to Onam. This highlights the importance of the maternal role in establishing heritage and succession within the tribes of Israel.
- Historical Record: The mention of Atarah as "another" H312 wife provides a specific and unembellished detail, underscoring the function of these lists as historical and familial records, preserving the name H8034 and memory of individuals within the covenant community.
In summary, H5851 ʻĂṭârâh is a personal name whose importance is entirely contained within its single genealogical context. Mentioned only once, she serves as a crucial link in the family line of Jerahmeel. Her inclusion demonstrates the value scripture places on recording complete lineages, where every individual, whether a patriarch or a mother like Atarah, has a recorded place in the story of Israel's heritage.
TRV