### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻĂsâyâh** `{{H6222}}` means **Jah has made**. It appears **8 times** across **8 unique verses** in the Bible. This name is assigned to several different Israelites, often individuals who held positions of responsibility or leadership within the community of Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, individuals named **ʻĂsâyâh** appear in significant roles. One, identified as a **servant** `{{H5650}}` of the **king's** `{{H4428}}`, was sent by King Josiah as part of a group to inquire of the **prophetess** `{{H5031}}` **Huldah** `{{H2468}}` ([[2 Kings 22:12]], [[2 Kings 22:14]]; [[2 Chronicles 34:20]]). Another **Asaiah** was a prominent Levite, a **chief** `{{H8269}}` of the sons of **Merari** `{{H4847}}`, called upon by **David** `{{H1732}}` to assist with bringing the Ark to **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}` ([[1 Chronicles 15:6]], [[1 Chronicles 15:11]]). The name also marks important figures in lineage records, such as **Asaiah** the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` of the **Shilonites** `{{H7888}}` [[1 Chronicles 9:5]], an **Asaiah** listed among the sons of Simeon [[1 Chronicles 4:36]], and an **Asaiah** who was the **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Haggiah** `{{H2293}}` in a Levitical genealogy [[1 Chronicles 6:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the roles and the naming conventions associated with **ʻĂsâyâh**:
* `{{H1141}}` **Bᵉnâyâh** (Jah has built): This name, meaning "Jah has built," shares a similar structure and appears alongside **Asaiah** in the same genealogical list, highlighting a common theophoric naming pattern [[1 Chronicles 4:36]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (a servant): This word defines the official position of the **Asahiah** who served the **king** `{{H4428}}`, linking him to the royal court and its functions [[2 Chronicles 34:20]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (a head person (of any rank or class)): This title designates the **Asaiah** who was a Levite leader as a **chief**, emphasizing his authority and responsibility among his **brethren** `{{H251}}` [[1 Chronicles 15:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of **ʻĂsâyâh** `{{H6222}}` is primarily expressed through its meaning and the actions of those who bore the name.
* **Declaration of God's Work:** The name itself, meaning "Jah has made," serves as a constant testimony to God as the Creator and active agent in the world. It is a confession of faith embedded in a personal identity.
* **Service in Sacred Moments:** The individuals named **Asaiah** are connected to pivotal moments of religious life in Israel. One was a **chief** `{{H8269}}` Levite involved in bringing the Ark to **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}` [[1 Chronicles 15:11]], while another was a royal **servant** `{{H5650}}` involved in the rediscovery of the Law under King Josiah [[2 Kings 22:12]].
* **Foundational Community Roles:** The name appears in contexts of lineage and settlement, signifying the importance of individuals in the fabric of the covenant community. An **Asaiah** is named as the **firstborn** `{{H1060}}` among the **Shilonites** `{{H7888}}` who **dwelt** `{{H3427}}` in **Jerusalem** `{{H3389}}`, a position of honor and responsibility [[1 Chronicles 9:5]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻĂsâyâh** `{{H6222}}` is more than just a name; it is a statement of faith meaning "Jah has made." It is borne by several notable figures in Scripture who served in positions of trust and leadership, from being a **chief** `{{H8269}}` among the Levites to a trusted **servant** `{{H5650}}` of the **king** `{{H4428}}`. Through its meaning and the legacy of the men who carried it, the name **ʻĂsâyâh** highlights the biblical themes of God's sovereignty and faithful service within His people.
TRV