עָמָל

Amal, an Israelite

Definition

Amal is a proper noun referring to an individual mentioned in the genealogy of the tribe of Asher in 1 Chronicles 7:35. He is listed as a son of Helem, a chief of the tribe, and is part of a detailed record of Asher's descendants. The name appears only in this single biblical instance, and no further narrative or actions are attributed to him. As a genealogical entry, the word serves primarily to establish lineage and tribal identity within the Chronicler's record.

Biblical Usage

The word is used exclusively as a personal name in a genealogical list. It occurs only in 1 Chronicles 7:35, within a chapter dedicated to the lineages of the tribes of Israel. This usage is typical of many names in Chronicles, which focuses on preserving family and tribal records for the post-exilic community. There are no narrative contexts or patterns of usage beyond this singular identification.

Etymology

The name Amal (עָמָל) is identical to the common Hebrew noun `ʻāmāl` (H5999), which means 'labor,' 'toil,' or 'trouble.' It is derived from the root עמל, conveying the sense of strenuous work or effort. As a personal name, it likely carried the meaning of 'laborer' or was given in reference to the circumstances of birth, a common practice in Hebrew onomastics.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names were often significant and descriptive. Bearing a name like Amal, meaning 'toil,' might reflect the hardships of life, parental hopes for endurance, or the circumstances surrounding the child's birth. As a genealogical entry, it underscores the importance of lineage and tribal identity in Israel's self-understanding, preserving the memory of even minor figures within the community's history.

עָמָל (`ʻāmāl`, H5999) — The common noun meaning 'labor' or 'toil,' from which the proper name is directly derived.

Word Details

Scripture References