עׇתְנִי

Othni, an Israelite

Definition

Othni is a proper name given to a Levite gatekeeper in the service of the Jerusalem temple. He is identified as a son of Shemaiah and a grandson of Obed-Edom, belonging to the Korahite clan (1 Chronicles 26:7). The name appears only in this genealogical list, where he is listed among the temple gatekeepers appointed by King David. As a proper name, it carries no other semantic senses or variations in biblical usage.

Biblical Usage

The name Othni is used exactly once in the Old Testament, within a genealogical record in 1 Chronicles 26:7. It appears in the context of listing the sons of Shemaiah, who were among the temple gatekeepers from the family of Obed-Edom. This usage is purely onomastic, serving to identify an individual within a priestly lineage and his assigned role in the temple's operation.

Etymology

The name Othni (עׇתְנִי) is derived from an unused Hebrew root, possibly meaning 'to force' or 'forcible.' It is a patronymic name, likely meaning 'my force' or 'forceful one.' This suggests the name was given with a sense of strength or vigor. It is linguistically related to the name Othniel (H6274), the first judge of Israel, which shares the same root concept.

Semantic Range

In ancient Israelite culture, names often carried significant meaning, reflecting character traits, circumstances of birth, or parental hopes. Othni's name, implying 'force' or 'strength,' may have denoted a desired attribute for his life, especially as he was destined for the physically demanding role of a temple gatekeeper. His inclusion in the Chronicler's list highlights the importance of precise, divinely appointed order and lineage for temple service.

Othniel (ʻOthnîyʼêl, H6274) — A related proper name meaning 'force/strength of God,' belonging to the first judge of Israel (Judges 3:9).

Word Details

Scripture References