The Hebrew word Pîythôwn, represented by H6377, is a proper name defined as expansive; Pithon, an Israelite. This name appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its sole function is to identify a specific individual within the genealogical records of Israel, highlighting the importance of lineage in the biblical narrative.
In the biblical narrative, H6377 is found exclusively in the book of 1 Chronicles within two similar genealogical lists. The name serves to identify one of the sons of Micah. In both occurrences, Pithon is named as part of a list of brothers, establishing his place within his family line (1 Chronicles 8:35, 1 Chronicles 9:41). The context does not provide any further details about his life or actions, focusing strictly on his position within the family tree.
Pithon's identity is established entirely by his relationship to his family members, who are mentioned alongside him:
- H4318 Mîykâh (Micah, the name of seven Israelites): Pithon's father, whose lineage is being documented in both passages (1 Chronicles 8:35, 1 Chronicles 9:41).
- H1121 bên (a son (as a builder of the family name)): This word establishes the direct father-son relationship between Micah and Pithon.
- H4429 Melek (Melek, the name of two Israelites): One of Pithon's brothers, listed in both genealogies 1 Chronicles 8:35.
- H271 ʼÂchâz (possessor; Achaz, the name of a Jewish king and of an Israelite): Another of Pithon's brothers, also listed in both accounts 1 Chronicles 8:35.
- H8390 Taʼărêaʻ (Taarea, an Israelite) and H8475 Tachrêaʻ (Tachrea, an Israelite): These are variant names for another of Pithon's brothers, appearing respectively in the lists of 1 Chronicles 8:35 and 1 Chronicles 9:41.
The significance of H6377 is rooted in its function within biblical genealogy rather than in any direct theological teaching.
- Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of Pithon in two separate but parallel genealogies (1 Chronicles 8:35, 1 Chronicles 9:41) underscores the meticulous care taken to preserve the ancestral records of Israel.
- Corporate Identity: Pithon is never mentioned alone; he is always identified as a son of Micah. This demonstrates the biblical principle that individual identity is deeply connected to one's family and tribe.
- Genealogical Anchor: As a proper name, Pîythôwn serves as a fixed point in a specific family line, contributing to the unbroken chain of ancestry that was vital to Israel's identity and inheritance claims.
In summary, H6377 Pîythôwn is a specific personal name that appears exclusively in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles. It does not carry a broad conceptual meaning but is significant for its role in documenting a specific lineage. Its presence demonstrates the value placed on family history and the precise recording of ancestry within the scriptural text, confirming an individual's place within the larger story of God's people.
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