### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻOthnîyʼêl**, represented by `{{H6274}}`, means **force of God**. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This name belongs to a specific Israelite who played a crucial role as the nation's first judge and deliverer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **ʻOthnîyʼêl** `{{H6274}}` is introduced as the first judge of Israel. After the children of Israel **cried** `{{H2199}}` out to the LORD, He **raised up** `{{H6965}}` **Othniel** as a **deliverer** `{{H3467}}` [[Judges 3:9]]. He is identified by his lineage as the **son** `{{H1121}}` of **Kenaz** `{{H7073}}` and the younger **brother** `{{H251}}` of **Caleb** `{{H3612}}` [[Judges 3:9]]. As a warrior, he **took** `{{H3920}}` a city, and for this victory, Caleb **gave** `{{H5414}}` him his **daughter** `{{H1323}}` **Achsah** `{{H5915}}` to be his **wife** `{{H802}}` [[Joshua 15:17]]. His leadership resulted in a period of peace, as "the **land** had **rest** forty years" before he **died** `{{H4191}}` [[Judges 3:11]]. His descendants are also mentioned, including his son **Hathath** `{{H2867}}` and a military **course** `{{H4256}}` under his name ([[1 Chronicles 4:13]], [[1 Chronicles 27:15]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Othniel's identity and role:
* `{{H7073}}` **Kenaz** (hunter): This is the name of **Othniel's** father, establishing his direct lineage. The scriptures repeatedly identify **Othniel** as "the **son** of **Kenaz**" [[Judges 3:9]].
* `{{H3612}}` **Kâlêb** (Caleb): This prominent figure is identified as **Othniel's** kinsman. The relationship is stated as "Caleb's younger **brother**" `{{H251}}`, highlighting the familial connection that framed **Othniel's** actions [[Judges 1:13]].
* `{{H3467}}` **yâshaʻ** (to free or succor): This verb is central to **Othniel's** purpose. The LORD raised him up as a **deliverer** to the children of Israel, one "who **delivered** them" from their distress [[Judges 3:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6274}}` is significant in establishing key principles.
* **God's Appointed Deliverer:** **Othniel's** story establishes a key theological pattern. He does not rise on his own accord; he is explicitly "raised up" by the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` to be a **deliverer** `{{H3467}}` for **Israel** `{{H3478}}` in direct response to their cry for help [[Judges 3:9]].
* **The Cycle of Judges:** As the first judge, **Othniel's** narrative arc—from Israel's cry to the land having **rest** `{{H8252}}`—sets the template for the cycle of sin, supplication, salvation, and rest that defines the era of the judges [[Judges 3:11]].
* **Reward for Faithfulness:** His successful conquest of a city, which resulted in him being **given** `{{H5414}}` **Achsah** `{{H5915}}` as a wife, demonstrates a principle of reward for courageous and obedient action [[Joshua 15:17]].
* **Enduring Legacy:** **Othniel's** influence extended beyond his own lifetime. His family line is recorded [[1 Chronicles 4:13]], and his name is associated with a division of military captains centuries later, signifying a lasting heritage [[1 Chronicles 27:15]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻOthnîyʼêl** `{{H6274}}` is more than just a name; it represents a pivotal figure whose life embodies the "force of God" in action. As the first judge, his story is a foundational account of divine intervention, where the LORD responds to the cries of His people by raising up a deliverer. Through his lineage, actions, and the resulting peace he brought to the **land** `{{H776}}`, **Othniel** serves as the initial example of God's pattern of salvation in an era of turmoil.
TRV