from עַם and חוּר; people of nobility; Ammichur, a Syrian prince; Ammihud (from the margin).
Transliteration:ʻAmmîychûwr
Pronunciation:am-mee-khoor'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun עַמִּיחוּר (Ammîychûwr, `{{H5991}}`) is a compound name derived from two elements: עַם (am, `{{H5971}}`), meaning "people," "kindred," or "kinsman," and חוּר (chûr, related to `{{H2356}}` or `{{H2357}}`), which signifies "noble," "free-born," or "white/pure." Combined, the name conveys the meaning "my people are noble" or "people of nobility." This etymology suggests a name that reflects aspiration, perceived status, or an acknowledgment of the bearer's lineage as distinguished. As a proper noun, its semantic range is inherently limited to the individual it identifies within the biblical narrative. It is crucial to distinguish this specific biblical usage from the broader etymological notes sometimes provided, such as "Syrian prince," which may refer to a wider Semitic context for the root, but not to the biblical figure of Ammîychûwr, who is clearly Israelite. Furthermore, it is important to note the close linguistic and semantic relationship to עַמִּיחֻד (Ammîychuwd, `{{H5989}}`), meaning "people of majesty/splendor," suggesting potential textual fluidity or a shared conceptual space for names denoting tribal prominence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Ammîychûwr appears exclusively in the Book of Numbers, serving as a patronymic for Ahiezer, the leader of the tribe of Dan. Specifically, he is mentioned in:
* [[Numbers 1:10]]: Here, Ammîychûwr is identified as the father of Ahiezer, the tribal head of Dan, during the first census in the wilderness of Sinai. This verse establishes his lineage and the significant role of his son.
* [[Numbers 2:18]]: In the description of the tribal encampment order, Ahiezer son of Ammîychûwr is again named as the leader of the camp of Dan, which included the tribes of Asher and Naphtali. This reiterates his son's prominent position in Israel's organized march.
* [[Numbers 7:48]]: This verse records the offering brought by Ahiezer son of Ammîychûwr on the seventh day of the dedication of the tabernacle. It highlights the participation of each tribal leader in the communal worship and support of the sanctuary.
* [[Numbers 7:53]]: This verse reiterates the total of Ahiezer's offering, again identifying him as the son of Ammîychûwr.
* [[Numbers 10:25]]: Here, Ammîychûwr is mentioned as the father of Ahiezer, who leads the rear guard of the Israelite camp during their wilderness journeys.
In each instance, Ammîychûwr himself is not an active participant in the narrative; rather, he is the ancestral figure who confers legitimacy and identity upon his son, Ahiezer. His significance lies in his role as the patriarch of a prominent family within the tribe of Dan, whose son holds a key leadership position during the formative period of Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. The repeated citation of his name underscores the importance of lineage and established authority within the divinely ordered structure of the Israelite tribes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of Ammîychûwr naturally leads to an exploration of its constituent elements and other names sharing similar structures or meanings:
* **עַם (am, `{{H5971}}`):** This foundational word signifies "people," "nation," or "kinsman." Its presence in many Israelite names (e.g., Amminadab `{{H5992}}`, Ammishaddai `{{H5993}}`) emphasizes the communal identity, tribal affiliation, and often, a relationship with God as "the people of YHWH." In Ammîychûwr, it highlights the collective aspect of nobility.
* **חוּר (chûr, related to `{{H2356}}`, `{{H2357}}`):** This root conveys concepts of "nobility," "freedom," or "purity/whiteness." It is found in words like חֹר (chor, `{{H2353}}`), meaning "noble" or "free," and describes individuals of high social standing. Its inclusion in Ammîychûwr speaks to a desired or recognized status within the family or tribe.
* **Names with "Ammi-" prefix:** The prevalence of names beginning with "Ammi-" (e.g., Amminadab, "my people are willing/noble"; Ammishaddai, "people of the Almighty"; Ammihud, "people of majesty") underscores a common naming convention that linked an individual's identity to their community and often to a divine attribute or a positive aspiration for the people. These names collectively reinforce the strong emphasis on communal identity and the significance of the "people" (עַם) in Israelite thought.
* **Tribal Leadership and Genealogy:** The context of Ammîychûwr's appearance within the genealogies and lists of tribal leaders in Numbers connects him to the broader theme of divine order, the organization of Israel, and the importance of established lineage for leadership and inheritance within the covenant community.
### Theological Significance
The name Ammîychûwr, "people of nobility," carries several layers of theological significance, even for a figure who remains largely in the background:
* **Theology of Names:** In biblical thought, names are not mere labels but often convey prophetic meaning, express aspirations, or reflect the character or destiny of the bearer. Ammîychûwr's name suggests a family's desire for or recognition of a distinguished status within the covenant community. This human nobility, however, is always subordinate to the divine election and the true nobility that comes from being part of God's chosen people.
* **Divine Order and Human Structure:** The meticulous listing of tribal leaders and their ancestry in Numbers highlights God's sovereignty over the organization of His people. Even seemingly minor figures like Ammîychûwr, through their lineage, contribute to the divinely ordained structure necessary for the wilderness journey and the establishment of the nation. His name is part of the tapestry of God's ordered creation.
* **Lineage and Covenant Continuity:** The consistent identification of tribal leaders by their patronymic (e.g., "Ahiezer son of Ammîychûwr") emphasizes the continuity of God's covenant promises across generations. It underscores that God works through families and established lines, ensuring the perpetuation of His people and the fulfillment of His purposes. The "nobility" of Ammîychûwr's people is ultimately rooted in their covenant relationship with YHWH.
* **The Nature of True Nobility:** While the name suggests an earthly nobility, biblical theology often redefines true nobility not by birthright alone, but by faithfulness to God and service within His covenant. Ammîychûwr's legacy is tied to his son's obedient leadership within the tabernacle and tribal structure, reflecting a form of nobility expressed through participation in God's plan.
### Summary
Ammîychûwr (Ammîychûwr, `{{H5991}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun meaning "people of nobility" or "my people are noble," derived from עַם (am, `{{H5971}}`) "people" and חוּר (chûr, related to `{{H2356}}`) "noble." This name is exclusively found in the Book of Numbers, where it identifies the father of Ahiezer, the tribal leader of Dan. Though `Ammîychûwr himself does not play an active role in the narrative, his name serves as a crucial patronymic, establishing the lineage and authority of his son within the divinely ordered structure of the Israelite tribes during the wilderness wanderings. The name reflects an aspiration for or recognition of high status, yet within biblical theology, true nobility is ultimately rooted in God's election and covenant faithfulness. His inclusion in the detailed lists of Numbers underscores the importance of lineage, communal identity, and God's meticulous organization of His people for the fulfillment of His redemptive purposes.
TRV