for עִתִּי; Attai, the name of three Israelites; Attai.
Transliteration:ʻAttay
Pronunciation:at-tah'ee
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma עַתַּי (ʻAttay, `{{H6262}}`) is a proper noun, serving as the name of three distinct individuals in the Old Testament. Its base definition indicates it is derived from or related to עִתִּי (ʻIttiy, `{{H6261}}`), which carries the meaning of "timely" or "opportune." Therefore, the name Attai likely conveys a similar sense, perhaps "opportune" or "my time." As a personal name, its semantic range is primarily limited to identification, yet the underlying etymology may subtly reflect the circumstances or hopes associated with the individual's birth or life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Attai is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible in three separate instances, referring to three different Israelites:
1. **Attai, a descendant of Judah:** He is listed in the genealogies of Judah as the son of Jashai and father of Nathan. This Attai is a descendant of Sheshan, a figure in the lineage of Jerahmeel, a son of Hezron (son of Perez, son of Judah). His inclusion in the detailed genealogical record in 1 Chronicles highlights the meticulous preservation of tribal lineages, particularly that of Judah, from which the Davidic monarchy would emerge. His mention is found in [[1 Chronicles 2:35-36]].
2. **Attai, a Gadite warrior:** This Attai is identified as one of the mighty men of valor from the tribe of Gad who joined David at Ziklag while David was still fleeing from King Saul. These warriors are described as "mighty men of valor, men trained for war, who could handle shield and spear, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and who were as swift as gazelles on the mountains." Their decision to align with David during a period of adversity underscores their loyalty and foresight. His specific mention is in [[1 Chronicles 12:11]] (verse 12 in some translations).
3. **Attai, a son of King Rehoboam:** He is listed among the sons of King Rehoboam, who reigned over Judah, and his wife Maacah, the daughter of Absalom. This Attai is part of the extensive family of Rehoboam, highlighting the numerous progeny of the Davidic line. This record serves to document the royal lineage and the continuation of the covenant promises through David's descendants. His name appears in [[2 Chronicles 11:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is עִתִּי (ʻIttiy, `{{H6261}}`), from which ʻAttay is likely derived, meaning "timely" or "opportune." This word itself stems from the more common Hebrew noun עֵת (ʻeth, `{{H6256}}`), which signifies "time," "season," or "occasion." The conceptual links extend to the broader biblical understanding of divine timing, providence, and the appropriate moment for action. While a proper noun, the etymological root connects Attai to ideas of purpose and destiny unfolding within God's sovereign plan.
### Theological Significance
Though ʻAttay is a proper name, its occurrences and potential etymological meaning carry subtle theological weight. The inclusion of individuals named Attai in the biblical narrative, particularly in genealogies and lists of faithful warriors, points to God's meticulous attention to individuals within His overarching plan. The Gadite warrior Attai exemplifies the theme of courageous commitment and timely support for God's anointed leader, David, during a period of uncertainty. His decision to join David at Ziklag can be seen as an "opportune" and divinely guided choice. The genealogical mentions of Attai within the lineage of Judah and the Davidic monarchy underscore the preservation of covenant lines and God's faithfulness in sustaining His promises through generations, irrespective of the prominence of the individual. The potential meaning "my time" or "opportune" might subtly suggest divine providence at work in the lives of these individuals, called forth or born at a specific, fitting moment in God's redemptive history.
### Summary
Attai (ʻAttay, `{{H6262}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name likely derived from a root meaning "timely" or "opportune." It designates three distinct individuals in the Old Testament: a descendant of Judah in the lineage of Sheshan ([[1 Chronicles 2:35-36]]), a brave Gadite warrior who joined David at Ziklag ([[1 Chronicles 12:11]]), and a son of King Rehoboam ([[2 Chronicles 11:20]]). While not a conceptual term, the name's occurrences in genealogies and among David's loyal supporters highlight God's meticulous preservation of lineage and the importance of timely, faithful action within His sovereign plan. The underlying meaning of the name may subtly point to divine providence and the opportune moments within God's unfolding purposes for His people.
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