### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Qâṭân**, represented by `{{H6997}}`, is a proper name for an Israelite. It appears in scripture as **Hakkatan**, which includes the definite article. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, indicating a very specific and limited role within the biblical narrative. Its base definition is "small" or "Katan."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{H6997}}` is found within a genealogical list in the book of Ezra. It is used to identify the father of a man named Johanan, who was among those returning from the Babylonian exile. The verse specifies that Johanan the son of **Hakkatan** was of the family of Azgad and returned with one hundred and ten males [[Ezra 8:12]]. This mention serves a clear historical purpose, documenting the specific individuals and family lines that participated in the restoration of the nation of Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of **Hakkatan**'s mention connects him to several other key individuals and concepts:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is essential to the passage, as **Hakkatan** is identified only as the father of his son, Johanan, establishing his place within a specific lineage [[Ezra 8:12]].
* `{{H5803}}` **ʻAzgâd** (stern troop; Azgad, an Israelite): This identifies the larger clan or family to which **Hakkatan** and his son Johanan belonged, placing them within the broader community of returnees [[Ezra 8:12]].
* `{{H3110}}` **Yôwchânân** (Johanan): This is the name of **Hakkatan**'s son, a leader who brought a contingent of his family back to Jerusalem [[Ezra 8:12]].
* `{{H3967}}` **mêʼâh** (a hundred): This numeral is used to quantify the group that returned with Johanan, son of **Hakkatan**, giving a sense of the scale of his family's contribution [[Ezra 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
While the name **Hakkatan** itself does not carry explicit theological weight, its inclusion in the biblical record contributes to broader theological themes.
* **Genealogical Integrity:** The mention of **Hakkatan** as a father within the line of Azgad underscores the importance of lineage and identity for the post-exilic community. It demonstrates the careful preservation of family records [[Ezra 8:12]].
* **Divine Faithfulness:** The meticulous list of names, including the father-son relationship of **Hakkatan** and Johanan, serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving and restoring His covenant people after the exile.
* **Community Restoration:** The inclusion of this specific family unit highlights that the restoration of Israel was a collective effort made up of individual families who answered the call to return and rebuild.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6997}}` is a specific personal name, **Hakkatan**, rather than a word with broad conceptual meaning. Its sole appearance serves a vital historical and genealogical purpose, identifying an individual whose son, Johanan, was a key figure in the return from exile [[Ezra 8:12]]. The significance of the name is found in its context, contributing to the detailed record that affirms God's preservation of the Israelite family lines during a critical moment of national restoration.
TRV