The Hebrew word Sûwkâthîy, represented by H7756, identifies a Suchathite. The term is a patronymic, likely meaning a descendant of an unknown Israelite named Sukah. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verses in the Bible, placing it within a specific genealogical record.
The sole appearance of H7756 is in a detailed list of genealogies. The Suchathites are mentioned as one of the families H4940 of scribes H5608 who dwelt H3427 at Jabez H3258. They are listed alongside the Tirathites H8654 and the Shimeathites H8101. This passage further clarifies that these H1992 families are Kenites H7017 who descended from Hemath H2574, identified as the father H1 of the house H1004 of Rechab H7394 1 Chronicles 2:55.
Several related words from its only context in 1 Chronicles 2:55 provide a fuller picture of the community:
- H4940 mishpâchâh (families): This term defines a circle of relatives, a tribe, or a people. It establishes the Suchathites as part of a larger kinship group (Genesis 12:3, Leviticus 25:10).
- H5608 çâphar (scribes): This word's root means to inscribe, enumerate, or recount. It identifies the profession of the Suchathites, a group tasked with declaring and recording information (Psalms 19:1, Psalms 40:5).
- H3427 yâshab (dwelt): A word meaning to sit down, dwell, or remain. It specifies that the Suchathite families were settled in a particular place (Psalms 91:1, Psalms 27:4).
- H7017 Qêynîy (Kenites): This identifies the Suchathites as members of the Kenite tribe, a people who had a long-standing relationship with Israel (Judges 1:16, 1 Samuel 15:6).
While not a major theological term, the inclusion of H7756 carries significance within the biblical narrative.
- Genealogical Integrity: Its presence demonstrates the meticulous nature of the biblical record in preserving the lineages and identities of various family groups, even those mentioned only once.
- Community of Scribes: The association of the Suchathites with scribes H5608 connects them to the vital role of preserving and transmitting knowledge and history within Israel 1 Chronicles 2:55.
- Integration of Peoples: By identifying the Suchathites as Kenites H7017, the text highlights the assimilation of non-Israelite peoples into the community and covenant life of Israel, specifically through the line of Rechab H7394.
In summary, H7756 is a highly specific term for the Suchathites, a family group mentioned once in Scripture. Its value lies not in frequent usage but in its precise placement within a genealogy that connects them to the scribal profession, the community at Jabez, and the notable lineage of the Kenites and the house of Rechab. This single mention provides a valuable snapshot of a specific community within the broader tapestry of ancient Israel.
TRV