### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Qᵉlîyṭâʼ**, represented by `{{H7042}}`, is known as **Kelita**. The name itself means **maiming**. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** and is the name given to what appears to be a single Israelite individual, although the base definition notes it can be the name of three Israelites.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Kelita** `{{H7042}}` is identified as a Levite active during the time of Ezra and Nehemiah. He is listed among a group of Levites who "caused the people to **understand** the law" after it was read publicly [[Nehemiah 8:7]]. The name also appears in a list of Levites and "their brethren" in [[Nehemiah 10:10]]. The book of Ezra clarifies that **Kelita** is another name for a Levite named Kelaiah, stating "Kelaiah, (the same is Kelita)" [[Ezra 10:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words and names appear in context with **Kelita**, highlighting his role within the Levitical community:
* `{{H7041}}` **Kêlâyâh** (Kelaiah): Meaning **insignificance**, this is explicitly identified as another name for the same individual as Kelita [[Ezra 10:23]].
* `{{H3881}}` **Lêvîyîy** (a Levite): This term defines the tribe to which **Kelita** belonged, a descendant of Levi set apart for religious duties ([[Ezra 10:23]], [[Nehemiah 8:7]]).
* `{{H3442}}` **Yêshûwaʻ** (Jeshua): Meaning **he will save**, Jeshua was a prominent Levite who is listed alongside **Kelita** in the important task of instructing the people in God's law [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
* `{{H8274}}` **Shêrêbᵉyâh** (Sherebiah): Meaning **Jah has brought heat**, Sherebiah is another Levite consistently named with **Kelita** during the teaching of the law [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
* `{{H995}}` **bîyn** (to understand): This root word describes the action **Kelita** and his fellow Levites performed, which was to **instruct**, **teach**, and cause the people to **discern** the law [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H7042}}` is tied to the role of the Levites in the spiritual restoration of Israel after the exile.
* **Instruction in the Law:** Kelita's primary function was as a teacher. He was part of a collective effort to ensure the people did not just hear the law, but could **understand** `{{H995}}` and apply it, which was foundational to renewing their covenant with God [[Nehemiah 8:7]].
* **Levitical Service:** As a **Levite** `{{H3881}}`, Kelita's life represented the importance of a dedicated class of spiritual servants. His presence in lists of Levites in both Ezra and Nehemiah reinforces the re-establishment of religious order and worship in Jerusalem ([[Ezra 10:23]], [[Nehemiah 10:10]]).
* **Communal Identity:** Kelita is never mentioned alone but always as part of a group of named Levites. This underscores the communal nature of the post-exilic restoration, where leadership and responsibility were shared among brethren.
### Summary
In summary, **Kelita** `{{H7042}}` is a Levite, also known as **Kelaiah** `{{H7041}}`, who played a supportive but vital role during the reforms of Ezra and Nehemiah. While the name appears only a few times, it is always in the context of significant spiritual activity, particularly the teaching of the law to the returned exiles. His story illustrates the importance of understanding God's word for the life and health of the community.
TRV