from an unused root meaning to compress; constringent; Athlai, an Israelite; Athlai.
Transliteration:ʻAthlay
Pronunciation:ath-lah'ee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma עַתְלַי (ʻAthlay, `{{H6270}}`) is a proper noun, specifically a masculine personal name. Its base definition states it derives "from an unused root meaning to compress; constringent." As a personal name, its primary semantic function is to identify a specific individual, thus its semantic range is inherently limited to that identity. Unlike common nouns or verbs, it does not possess a broad spectrum of meanings or applications within the biblical text. However, the etymological root, though unused elsewhere as an active verb or noun, suggests a conceptual meaning related to "compression," "constriction," or "binding." While the precise nuance intended by the name-giver is not explicitly stated, names in ancient Israel often carried a hopeful or descriptive meaning. In this case, "constringent" could metaphorically imply someone who is firm, bound by obligation, or perhaps even one who brings things together tightly.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name ʻAthlay (`{{H6270}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Ezra:
* [[Ezra 10:28]]: "Of the sons of Bebai: Jehohanan, Hananiah, Zabbai, *Athlai*."
This solitary occurrence places ʻAthlay within a significant historical and theological context. He is listed among the men who had taken foreign wives during the post-exilic period, in direct violation of the Mosaic covenant (cf. [[Deuteronomy 7:3-4]]). The list in Ezra 10 details those who confessed their sin and, under the leadership of Ezra, committed to putting away their foreign wives and children. This act was a crucial step in the purification and restoration of the Israelite community after the return from Babylonian exile. ʻAthlay's inclusion in this catalog signifies his participation in this widespread transgression and, more importantly, his subsequent repentance and participation in the covenant renewal process. His name is simply one among many, highlighting the pervasive nature of the sin and the collective response of the people.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that ʻAthlay (`{{H6270}}`) is a proper noun with a single biblical occurrence, direct semantic relatives are not applicable in the typical sense of a word study. However, its context connects it to several crucial biblical concepts and themes:
* **Covenant Fidelity and Infidelity:** ʻAthlay's inclusion in the list directly relates to the concept of breaking the covenant through intermarriage, and subsequently, the act of returning to covenant fidelity through repentance.
* **Repentance and Restoration:** The entire narrative of Ezra 10, in which ʻAthlay is found, is a powerful demonstration of corporate repentance and the steps taken for the spiritual restoration of the community. This involves confession of sin and decisive action to rectify the transgression.
* **Purity of the Community:** The concern over foreign wives reflects a broader theological emphasis on the purity and distinctiveness of the covenant people, essential for maintaining their unique identity as God's chosen nation (cf. [[Exodus 34:15-16]], [[Nehemiah 13:23-27]]).
* **Obedience to Torah:** Ezra's reforms were driven by a commitment to the Law of Moses. ʻAthlay's participation underscores the importance of obedience to divine commands for the well-being of the nation.
* **Corporate Responsibility:** The list of names, including ʻAthlay, emphasizes the corporate nature of sin and the collective responsibility to address it for the sake of the entire community.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ʻAthlay (`{{H6270}}`) is not found in a unique revelation associated with his person, but rather in his role as an exemplar within a larger narrative of national repentance and renewal. His presence in [[Ezra 10:28]] underscores several vital theological truths:
1. **The Seriousness of Disobedience:** The inclusion of ʻAthlay and others highlights the severity with which God's covenant commands, particularly regarding separation from pagan influences, were viewed. Intermarriage was not merely a social misstep but a spiritual compromise that threatened the very identity and faithfulness of Israel.
2. **The Necessity of Radical Repentance:** The narrative demonstrates that true repentance involves not only confession but also decisive action to rectify sin, even when it means personal sacrifice (e.g., putting away wives and children). ʻAthlay's participation in this act testifies to the depth of the community's commitment to God's Law.
3. **God's Grace in Restoration:** Despite the profound failure of the people, God, through His servant Ezra, provided a path for restoration. ʻAthlay's name, among others, serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in bringing His people back to Himself when they genuinely repent.
4. **The Importance of Community Purity:** The actions taken in Ezra 10, in which ʻAthlay participated, underscore the theological principle that the purity and distinctiveness of God's people are paramount for their witness and their relationship with Him. This purity is maintained through strict adherence to the covenant.
### Summary
ʻAthlay (`{{H6270}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, a masculine personal name, appearing only once in [[Ezra 10:28]]. Derived from an unused root meaning "to compress" or "constringent," its etymological meaning is intriguing but secondary to its contextual significance. ʻAthlay is listed among the Israelites who had taken foreign wives during the post-exilic period and subsequently committed to putting them away as part of a national repentance and covenant renewal led by Ezra. His single biblical occurrence serves to illustrate the pervasive nature of the sin of intermarriage and, more importantly, the collective and radical obedience required for the purification and restoration of the covenant community. The theological significance of ʻAthlay's inclusion lies in its witness to the seriousness of covenant disobedience, the necessity of radical repentance, God's grace in providing a path for restoration, and the paramount importance of community purity for God's people.
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