probably from עָמַס; burdensome; Amashsay, an Israelite; Amashai.
Transliteration:ʻĂmashçay
Pronunciation:am-ash-sah'-ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H6023, ʻĂmashçay (עֲמַשְׁסַי), is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates a probable derivation from the root `{{H6006}}` (עָמַס, 'amas), which signifies "to load," "to lay a burden upon," or "to carry a burden." Therefore, the name itself carries the conceptual meaning of "burdensome" or "my burden." As a proper name, its primary function is to identify an individual, but the etymological root imbues it with a deeper semantic resonance related to the concept of weight, responsibility, or a heavy load.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name ʻĂmashçay (H6023) appears in two distinct contexts within the Old Testament, referring to two different individuals:
1. **[[1 Chronicles 12:18]]**: Here, Amashsay (transliterated as "Amasai" in some versions) is identified as a chief of the captains, a prominent figure among the men of Judah who joined David at the stronghold while he was still fleeing from Saul. This passage describes a pivotal moment where "the Spirit came upon Amashsay," empowering him to deliver a fervent pledge of loyalty to David: "Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse! Peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee." In this context, Amashsay is presented as a divinely inspired and loyal warrior, contributing to the establishment of David's kingdom. His declaration, far from being a burden, serves to lighten the burden of uncertainty and opposition that David faced.
2. **[[2 Chronicles 31:13]]**: In this passage, Amashsay (transliterated as "Amashai" in some versions) is listed among the Levite overseers appointed during King Hezekiah's widespread reforms of the temple service. He, along with others, was responsible for the faithful distribution of the offerings brought into the house of the Lord. This role signifies a position of trust and responsibility in the administration of sacred duties. Here, the "burden" implied by the name could be understood as the weighty responsibility of stewardship over holy things, ensuring proper order and provision for the priests and Levites.
Given the significant time gap between David's reign and Hezekiah's reforms, and the distinct roles (warrior/leader vs. temple administrator), it is clear that these are two separate individuals bearing the same name.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verbal root `{{H6006}}` (עָמַס, 'amas), from which ʻĂmashçay is derived. This root is used to describe the act of loading animals, carrying heavy loads, or bearing responsibility.
Related concepts include:
* **Burden (מַשָּׂא, `{{H4853}}`):** This noun frequently refers to literal loads, prophetic oracles (seen as a heavy message), or responsibilities.
* **Responsibility and Stewardship:** As seen in the role of the Levite Amashsay, the concept of bearing a "burden" often translates into faithful administration and responsibility.
* **Divine Empowerment:** The Spirit coming upon Amashsay in [[1 Chronicles 12:18]] highlights how God equips individuals to bear the burdens of leadership, loyalty, and service.
* **Support and Loyalty:** The pledge of the first Amashsay demonstrates how individuals can alleviate the burdens of leaders through unwavering support.
### Theological Significance
The name ʻĂmashçay, meaning "burdensome" or "my burden," offers intriguing theological insights when considered in light of its biblical occurrences. While the etymology suggests a heavy load, the individuals bearing this name are depicted as those who *bear* significant responsibilities and, in doing so, often *alleviate* burdens or faithfully uphold them for God's purposes.
In [[1 Chronicles 12:18]], Amashsay's Spirit-empowered declaration of loyalty to David transforms a potential burden of leadership (the need for support) into a blessing of faithful allegiance. This illustrates that God often calls individuals to share in the "burdens" of His chosen leaders, providing strength and solidarity. The "burden" here is not negative, but a weighty and divinely sanctioned responsibility.
In [[2 Chronicles 31:13]], the Levite Amashsay's role as an overseer underscores the sacred "burden" of stewardship. Managing the temple offerings was a critical task, requiring integrity and diligence. This highlights the theological principle that those entrusted with God's resources or sacred duties bear a significant responsibility, a "burden" that must be carried with faithfulness and reverence.
The name, therefore, serves as a subtle reminder that God often calls His people to bear "burdens"—whether they be responsibilities of leadership, service, or loyalty—and that He empowers them to do so for the furtherance of His kingdom. These burdens, when carried in faithfulness, become avenues for divine blessing and effective ministry.
### Summary
H6023, ʻĂmashçay (עֲמַשְׁסַי), is a Hebrew proper name derived from the root `{{H6006}}` (עָמַס), meaning "to load" or "to burden." Consequently, the name conceptually signifies "burdensome" or "my burden." The Bible refers to two distinct individuals bearing this name:
1. A chief of David's mighty men, upon whom the Spirit of God came, enabling him to pledge profound loyalty and support to David, thereby easing the burden of leadership ([[1 Chronicles 12:18]]).
2. A Levite overseer during King Hezekiah's reign, entrusted with the faithful administration and distribution of temple offerings, embodying the burden of sacred stewardship ([[2 Chronicles 31:13]]).
Despite its etymological meaning, the individuals named ʻĂmashçay are presented not as burdens themselves, but as faithful bearers of responsibility and loyalty. Their lives illustrate that the "burdens" God places upon His servants are often weighty but are also opportunities for divinely enabled service, support, and faithful stewardship, contributing to the well-being of the community and the advancement of God's purposes.
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