Topical Encyclopedia Jathniel is a biblical figure mentioned in the genealogical records of the tribe of Levi. His name appears in the context of the Levitical families, which were set apart for specific religious duties and responsibilities in the service of the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem. The name "Jathniel" is understood to mean "God gives" or "whom God has given," reflecting a common practice in Hebrew culture of naming individuals in a way that acknowledges divine providence or blessing.Biblical Reference: Jathniel is mentioned in 1 Chronicles 26:2, where he is listed among the sons of Meshelemiah, a gatekeeper of the Tabernacle. The passage reads: "The sons of Meshelemiah: Zechariah the firstborn, Jediael the second, Zebadiah the third, Jathniel the fourth" . This brief mention places Jathniel within the context of the Levitical duties associated with the care and protection of the sacred spaces of Israel. Levitical Context: The Levites were one of the twelve tribes of Israel, set apart for religious service. Within the tribe of Levi, specific families were assigned various roles, including the duties of priests, musicians, and gatekeepers. The gatekeepers, such as Jathniel and his family, were responsible for maintaining the security and sanctity of the Tabernacle and later the Temple. This role was crucial in ensuring that the worship of Yahweh was conducted in accordance with the laws and regulations given to Moses. Genealogical Significance: The genealogical records in the books of Chronicles serve to establish the continuity and legitimacy of the Levitical priesthood and their associated duties. By listing individuals like Jathniel, the chronicler underscores the importance of lineage and the faithful transmission of religious responsibilities from one generation to the next. This emphasis on genealogy reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant faithfulness and the role of the Levites in upholding the worship practices of Israel. Theological Implications: Jathniel's inclusion in the biblical record, though brief, highlights the value placed on each member of the Levitical families in the service of God. The mention of his name serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to maintain the worship and religious life of the Israelite community. It also reflects the biblical principle that every role, no matter how seemingly minor, is significant in the eyes of God when it contributes to the greater purpose of His divine plan. In summary, Jathniel's mention in the Bible, though limited to a genealogical listing, provides insight into the structure and function of Levitical service, emphasizing the importance of each individual's contribution to the worship and religious life of ancient Israel. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary JathnielSmith's Bible Dictionary Jathniel(whom God gives), a Korhite Levite, the fourth of the family of Meshelemiah. (1 Chronicles 26:2) (B.C. 1014.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia JATHNIELjath'-ni-el (yathni'el, "God lives"): Fourth "son" of Meshelemiah, a Korahite (1 Chronicles 26:2). Strong's Hebrew 3496. Yathniel -- "God hires," a Levite... 3495, 3496. Yathniel. 3497 . "God hires," a Levite. Transliteration: Yathniel Phonetic Spelling: (yath-nee-ale') Short Definition: Jathniel. ... Jathniel. ... /hebrew/3496.htm - 6k Thesaurus Jathniel (1 Occurrence)...JATHNIEL. jath'-ni-el (yathni'el, "God lives"): Fourth "son" of Meshelemiah, a Korahite (1 Chronicles 26:2). Multi-Version Concordance Jathniel (1 Occurrence). ... /j/jathniel.htm - 7k Jath'ni-el (1 Occurrence) Zebadi'ah (9 Occurrences) Zebadiah (9 Occurrences) Zechari'ah (51 Occurrences) Jediael (6 Occurrences) Jathbath Jedi'a-el (5 Occurrences) Meshelemi'ah (4 Occurrences) Meshelemiah (4 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Jathniel (1 Occurrence)1 Chronicles 26:2 Subtopics Related Terms |