Ginnethoi is a name found in the context of the post-exilic period of Israel's history, specifically associated with the Levitical priesthood. The name appears in the genealogical and administrative records of those who returned from the Babylonian exile to Jerusalem and Judah. Ginnethoi is mentioned in the book of Nehemiah, which provides insight into the restoration of the Jewish community and religious practices following the return from captivity.

Biblical References:

1. Nehemiah 12:4 : "Iddo, Ginnethoi, Abijah." This verse is part of a list of priests and Levites who returned with Zerubbabel and Jeshua. Ginnethoi is mentioned among the priests, indicating his role in the religious leadership of the community. The listing of names in this chapter underscores the continuity of the priestly line and the importance of maintaining the religious traditions and duties as prescribed in the Law of Moses.

2. Nehemiah 12:16 : "of Iddo, Zechariah; of Ginnethon, Meshullam." Here, Ginnethoi is referred to as Ginnethon, which may suggest a variant spelling or a scribal tradition that reflects the same family or lineage. This verse is part of a detailed account of the heads of the priestly families during the time of Joiakim, the son of Jeshua. The mention of Ginnethon in this context highlights the organizational structure of the priesthood and the delegation of responsibilities among the priestly families.

Historical and Theological Context:

The return from Babylonian exile marked a significant period of religious and cultural reformation for the Jewish people. The rebuilding of the Temple and the reestablishment of the priesthood were central to this renewal. The priests, including those from the family of Ginnethoi, played a crucial role in restoring the sacrificial system, teaching the Law, and leading the people in worship.

The genealogical records, such as those found in Nehemiah, served not only as historical documentation but also as a means of validating the legitimacy and authority of the priestly line. This was essential for maintaining the purity and sanctity of the Temple services and ensuring that the religious practices adhered to the covenantal standards set forth in the Torah.

The mention of Ginnethoi in the biblical text, though brief, reflects the broader narrative of God's faithfulness in preserving His people and the priestly line through the challenges of exile and return. The priests were instrumental in guiding the community in spiritual renewal and adherence to the covenant, which was vital for the identity and continuity of the Jewish faith.

Linguistic Notes:

The name Ginnethoi, or Ginnethon, may derive from a root meaning "garden" or "enclosure," which could metaphorically suggest a place of growth or protection. Such names were not uncommon in the ancient Near Eastern context and often carried symbolic significance related to the individual's role or family heritage.

Conclusion:

While the biblical references to Ginnethoi are limited, they contribute to the understanding of the post-exilic community's efforts to reestablish their religious identity and practices. The priestly families, including that of Ginnethoi, were integral to this process, ensuring the continuity of worship and adherence to the covenantal relationship with God.GINNETHOI; GINNETHON

gin-e-tho'-i, gin'-e-thon (the King James Version Ginnetho), (ginnethoy, and ginnethon): The head of a priestly family. Ginnethoi (Ginnetho) is found in Nehemiah 12:4, and Ginnethon in 10:6; 12:16.

1599. Ginnethon -- an Israelite priest
... Ginnethon. Word Origin from ganan Definition an Isr. priest NASB Word Usage
Ginnethoi (1), Ginnethon (2). Ginnetho, Ginnethon. Or ...
/hebrew/1599.htm - 6kGinnethoi (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GINNETHOI; GINNETHON. ...Ginnethoi (Ginnetho) is found
in Nehemiah 12:4, and Ginnethon in 10:6; 12:16. Multi-Version Concordance ...
/g/ginnethoi.htm - 7k

Ginnethon (3 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia GINNETHOI; GINNETHON. ...Ginnethoi (Ginnetho) is found
in Nehemiah 12:4, and Ginnethon in 10:6; 12:16. Multi-Version Concordance ...
/g/ginnethon.htm - 7k

Ginnetho (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Ginnetho (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 12:4 Iddo, Ginnethoi,
Abijah, (Root in WEB KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). ...
/g/ginnetho.htm - 6k

Gin'nethoi (1 Occurrence)
Gin'nethoi. Ginnethoi, Gin'nethoi. Ginnethon . Multi-Version Concordance
Gin'nethoi (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 12:4 Iddo, Ginnethoi, Abijah; (See RSV). ...
/g/gin'nethoi.htm - 6k

Abi'jah (26 Occurrences)
... Zechariah. (See RSV). Nehemiah 10:7 Meshullam, Abijah, Mijamin; (See RSV).
Nehemiah 12:4 Iddo, Ginnethoi, Abijah; (See RSV). Nehemiah ...
/a/abi'jah.htm - 12k

Iddo (14 Occurrences)
... Joel, Benaiah. (WEB ASV BBE). Nehemiah 12:4 Iddo, Ginnethoi, Abijah, (WEB
KJV JPS ASV BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS RSV NIV). Nehemiah 12:16 ...
/i/iddo.htm - 14k

Abijah (32 Occurrences)
... DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). Nehemiah 12:4 Iddo, Ginnethoi, Abijah, (WEB KJV JPS ASV
BBE DBY WBS YLT NAS NIV). Nehemiah 12:17 of Abijah, Zichri ...
/a/abijah.htm - 25k

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