The Hebrew name ʻAthlay, represented by H6270, identifies a specific Israelite. The name is derived from an unused root that means "to compress," leading to the definition constringent. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, marking its sole appearance within a genealogical record.
The single biblical mention of H6270 occurs in the book of Ezra. In this context, Athlai is named within a list of individuals belonging to a specific family line. He is identified as one of the "sons of Bebai" Ezra 10:28. This passage places him alongside other men from the same clan: Jehohanan, Hananiah, and Zabbai, providing a snapshot of a particular family group within the post-exilic community.
Several related words appear alongside ʻAthlay in his only scriptural reference, establishing his familial context:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes ʻAthlay's identity as a descendant. The concept of passing down knowledge and heritage to sons is a recurring theme Deuteronomy 4:9.
- H893 Bêbay (Bebai, an Israelite): This is the name of the clan head to which ʻAthlay belongs. The family of Bebai is also listed among those returning from exile Ezra 2:11.
- H3076 Yᵉhôwchânân (Jehovah-favored; Jehochanan): Listed as a fellow son of Bebai, Jehohanan is also mentioned elsewhere as a significant figure in the community during the time of Ezra Ezra 10:6.
- H2608 Chănanyâh (Jah has favored; Chananjah): This name, belonging to another man listed with ʻAthlay, appears numerous times in the Old Testament, identifying various individuals, including one of Daniel's companions Daniel 1:7.
- H2140 Zakkay (pure): This name is associated with Zabbai, who is listed with ʻAthlay. The name itself appears in other lists cataloging the families of Israel Ezra 2:9.
While the name H6270 itself does not carry significant theological weight, its inclusion in scripture highlights several important principles of the biblical record.
- Genealogical Importance: The mention of ʻAthlay within a specific list underscores the value placed on lineage and detailed record-keeping in establishing identity for the people of Israel, particularly for the community returning from exile.
- Family Structure: By being named as one of the "sons of Bebai" Ezra 10:28, ʻAthlay is placed within a specific family unit, demonstrating how individual identity was intrinsically linked to the larger clan and tribal structure.
- Historical Record: The inclusion of names like ʻAthlay, who are not central figures in major narratives, provides a sense of historical authenticity and grounds the biblical account in the lives of specific, named individuals.
In summary, H6270 ʻAthlay is the proper name of an Israelite mentioned once in the Bible. Its appearance is confined to a genealogical list in the book of Ezra, where it serves a historical rather than a theological purpose. The name's presence helps to identify a specific individual within the family of Bebai and illustrates the meticulous care taken in the biblical texts to document the lineage and identity of the Israelite people.
TRV