The Hebrew name Pôkereth Tsᵉbâyîym, represented by H6380, translates to trap of gazelles. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. This term is not a common noun but rather the proper name of an individual identified as one of the "servants of Solomon".
The biblical usage of H6380 is exclusively found within genealogical lists that document the families returning from the Babylonian exile. In both Ezra and Nehemiah, the name appears in the identical phrase, "The children of Pochereth of Zebaim," indicating a family line or clan descended from this individual (Ezra 2:57; Nehemiah 7:59). This context places Pochereth of Zebaim as an ancestor whose descendants were part of the community that rebuilt Jerusalem.
The name H6380 appears alongside several other family heads in parallel census records. The key related terms establish its context:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is fundamental to the context, used repeatedly as "The children of..." to structure the genealogical lists where Pochereth of Zebaim is mentioned (Ezra 2:57; Nehemiah 7:59).
- H8203 Shᵉphaṭyâh (Jah has judged): The children of Shephatiah are listed immediately before the children of Pochereth of Zebaim in both census accounts Ezra 2:57.
- H2411 Chaṭṭîyl (fluctuating): The family of Hattil is also listed in direct parallel with Pochereth of Zebaim in both Ezra and Nehemiah (Ezra 2:57; Nehemiah 7:59).
- H532 ʼÂmîy (an abbreviated form for אָמוֹן): The descendants of Ami are listed after Pochereth of Zebaim in the book of Ezra Ezra 2:57.
- H526 ʼÂmôwn (the same as אָמוֹן): The descendants of Amon are listed after Pochereth of Zebaim in the parallel account in Nehemiah, showing a slight variation from the list in Ezra Nehemiah 7:59.
While not a term with broad theological weight, H6380 contributes to key biblical themes through its specific context.
- Covenantal Faithfulness: The inclusion of this name in the lists of returning exiles underscores God's faithfulness in preserving His people, even down to specific family lines, through generations of hardship and exile.
- Historical Continuity: As one of the "servants of Solomon," the name provides a direct link between the post-exilic community and the golden age of Israel's united monarchy. It reinforces the legitimacy and historical roots of those who returned to rebuild the nation.
- Genealogical Importance: The careful recording of lineages, including that of Pochereth of Zebaim, highlights the value placed on heritage and identity within the biblical narrative.
In summary, H6380 is the proper name of an individual whose lineage is recorded in scripture. Its meaning, "trap of gazelles," is unique, but its significance comes from its placement within the lists of Ezra and Nehemiah. The name serves as a marker of ancestral identity, connecting the community returning from exile to the historical servants of King Solomon and demonstrating the meticulous preservation of family lines within Israel's history.
TRV