### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAmmîynâdâb**, represented by `{{H5992}}`, means **people of liberality**. It appears 13 times across 12 unique verses as the name of at least four distinct Israelites. This name is significant in the scriptures as it is associated with figures in both the royal lineage of Judah and the priestly lineage of Levi.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, the most prominent ʻAmmîynâdâb `{{H5992}}` is a descendant of Hezron and Ram within the tribe of Judah ([[Ruth 4:19]], [[1 Chronicles 2:10]]). This Amminadab is central to two key lineages: he is the father of Nahshon, who was the prince or captain of the children of Judah ([[Numbers 2:3]], [[1 Chronicles 2:10]]), and the father of Elisheba, who became the wife of Aaron `{{H175}}` [[Exodus 6:23]]. Other individuals named Amminadab appear in the Levitical genealogies. One is listed as a son of Kohath `{{H6955}}` in the line of Levite singers [[1 Chronicles 6:22]]. Another, a chief `{{H8269}}` of the sons of Uzziel `{{H5816}}`, was among the Levites called by David to assist with the ark of the covenant [[1 Chronicles 15:10-11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context surrounding the individuals named Amminadab:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is essential for tracing the genealogies connected to `{{H5992}}`. Amminadab is the father or **son** of key figures, such as in the phrase "Nahshon the **son** of Amminadab" [[Numbers 1:7]].
* `{{H3063}}` **Yᵉhûwdâh** (Judah): This identifies the tribal affiliation of the most notable Amminadab. His son, Nahshon, was a prince and captain over the tribe of **Judah** [[Numbers 2:3]].
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (captain, chief, prince, ruler): This title, applied to Amminadab's son Nahshon, establishes the family's leadership role within Israel as the **prince** of the children of Judah [[1 Chronicles 2:10]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (a Levite or descendant of Levi): This term is crucial for distinguishing other men named Amminadab, who were leaders among the **Levites** `{{H3881}}` called by David [[1 Chronicles 15:11]].
* `{{H175}}` **ʼAhărôwn** (Aaron): The marriage of Amminadab's daughter, Elisheba, to **Aaron** directly links the Judahite family of Amminadab to the high priesthood [[Exodus 6:23]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5992}}` is demonstrated through its connection to foundational roles in Israel's leadership.
* **Royal Lineage:** As the father of Nahshon, a prince `{{H5387}}` of Judah, Amminadab is a key ancestor in the tribe from which Israel's kings would come ([[1 Chronicles 2:10]], [[Ruth 4:20]]).
* **Priestly Connection:** Through his daughter Elisheba's marriage to Aaron `{{H175}}`, Amminadab's line is connected by family to the establishment of the Aaronic priesthood, uniting the future royal tribe with the priestly one [[Exodus 6:23]].
* **Levitical Leadership:** The name is also borne by leaders within the tribe of Levi, including a chief `{{H8269}}` from the sons of Uzziel who participated in the sacred service of bringing the ark to Jerusalem, and another listed in the Kohathite genealogy ([[1 Chronicles 15:10]], [[1 Chronicles 6:22]]).
### Summary
In summary, **ʻAmmîynâdâb** `{{H5992}}` is more than just a name; it represents a nexus of authority and service in ancient Israel. Figures bearing this name are found at the heart of the genealogies of both the tribe of Judah, which produced Israel's kings, and the tribe of Levi, which was set apart for priestly service. The name connects the lines of civil and spiritual leadership, underscoring its importance in the structure of the nation.
TRV