### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Tirʻâthîy**, represented by `{{H8654}}`, identifies a **Tirathite**, an inhabitant of an unknown location named Tirah. It is a patrial term, meaning it denotes a person’s origin. This name appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, making its meaning entirely dependent on its single context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{H8654}}` is listed among the **families** `{{H4940}}` of the **scribes** `{{H5608}}` who **dwelt** `{{H3427}}` at **Jabez** `{{H3258}}` [[1 Chronicles 2:55]]. The passage identifies the Tirathites alongside the Shimeathites and Suchathites as part of a larger group. This verse further clarifies that these families are **Kenites** `{{H7017}}` who came from **Hemath** `{{H2574}}`, the founder of the house of **Rechab** `{{H7394}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
The significance of the Tirathites is understood through the other groups mentioned in the same verse:
* `{{H8101}}` **Shimʻâthîy** (Shimeathites): This term identifies the descendants of Shimah, another scribal family listed alongside the Tirathites.
* `{{H7756}}` **Sûwkâthîy** (Suchathites): This name refers to the descendants of an unknown Israelite named Sukah, who also comprised a scribal family at Jabez.
* `{{H7017}}` **Qêynîy** (Kenite): A member of the tribe of Kajin. The Tirathites are identified as being part of this group, who were known to have a special relationship with Israel [[1 Samuel 15:6]].
* `{{H3258}}` **Yaʻbêts** (Jabez): The name of an honorable Israelite and the place where these scribal families dwelt [[1 Chronicles 4:9]].
* `{{H7394}}` **Rêkâb** (Rechab): Meaning "rider," this is the name of the ancestor of the Rechabites, a family known for their strict obedience [[Jeremiah 35:6]].
### Theological Significance
The importance of `{{H8654}}` is derived from its associations within its genealogical listing.
* **Scribal Heritage:** The Tirathites are explicitly identified as a family of **scribes** `{{H5608}}`, whose role was to declare, recount, and number. This connects them to the sacred task of preserving and teaching God's works and words [[Psalms 19:1]].
* **Connection to Jabez:** By **dwelling** `{{H3427}}` at **Jabez** `{{H3258}}`, the Tirathites are linked to a place associated with prayer, honor, and divine blessing [[1 Chronicles 4:10]].
* **Kenite and Rechabite Lineage:** The passage traces the Tirathites' ancestry to the **Kenites** `{{H7017}}` and the house of **Rechab** `{{H7394}}`. This connects them to a legacy of faithfulness, kindness toward Israel, and exemplary obedience to ancestral commands [[Jeremiah 35:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8654}}` is more than just an obscure name in a genealogy. Although it appears only once, its context in [[1 Chronicles 2:55]] provides its entire meaning. The Tirathites are defined not in isolation but by their craft as scribes, their home in the honorable place of Jabez, and their esteemed lineage as Kenites descended from the house of Rechab.
TRV