### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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