Attai
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Meaning and Origin
The name Attai is derived from Hebrew origins and is often translated to mean opportune or timely. This meaning reflects a sense of readiness and being in alignment with divine timing, which is a recurring theme in biblical narratives. The linguistic roots of the name suggest a connection to moments of opportunity or providence, aligning well with its biblical usage in contexts of leadership, loyalty, and divine purpose.
Image of Attai
Name Attai in languages of the Bible
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Popularity Analysis
While the name Attai is relatively rare, its biblical roots give it enduring appeal in Christian communities worldwide. It is most commonly found in Hebrew-speaking regions and among individuals who seek names with strong scriptural ties. The name’s association with themes of divine timing and loyalty makes it attractive for parents looking for meaningful, faith-based names.
Outside of its biblical context, Attai has seen limited use in modern naming conventions but retains cultural significance in religious studies and discussions of biblical genealogy. Its rarity adds to its uniqueness, making it a name that carries both historical depth and spiritual resonance.
Biblical and Cultural Significance
The name Attai is associated with three distinct individuals in the Old Testament, each of whom plays a unique role in biblical history. The first is a man of Judah, whose father was an Egyptian slave, yet his lineage through his mother connects him to Jerahmeel and Hezron, prominent figures in the genealogy of Judah (1 Chronicles 2:34–36). This connection may symbolize the blending of cultures and the inclusivity of God's covenant, as Attai emerges from a union between an outsider and a descendant of Israel’s patriarchs.
The second instance of Attai is as a warrior of David, listed as the sixth among the Gadites who joined David at Ziklag (1 Chronicles 12:11). His association with David during a critical period of military consolidation highlights his loyalty and strength, further emphasizing the name's meaning of being opportune—a timely ally in David’s pursuit of kingship.
Lastly, Attai is mentioned as a son of Rehoboam and Maacah (2 Chronicles 11:20), placing him in the royal lineage of Judah during the divided monarchy. This highlights his familial proximity to the Davidic dynasty, underscoring his role in the broader narrative of Israel’s history. The Divine Proximity Index of 70.3/100 reflects a moderate association with God in scripture, while the Jesus Circle Score of 94.1/100 suggests a strong thematic connection to Christ-like qualities of loyalty and divine alignment.
Biblical Context
The name Attai appears in five biblical verses, each contributing to its narrative significance. In 1 Chronicles 2:35, Attai is identified as the son of Jarha, an Egyptian slave, and a descendant of Judah through his mother’s lineage. This verse emphasizes the blending of cultures and God’s inclusive plan for redemption. In 1 Chronicles 12:11, Attai is honored as one of the Gadite warriors who came to David at Ziklag, a pivotal moment in David’s journey to kingship. His placement as sixth among these warriors highlights his importance in the military and spiritual support of David’s mission.
In 2 Chronicles 11:20, Attai is listed as a son of Rehoboam and Maacah, situating him within the royal lineage of Judah during a time of political division. This reference underscores the dynastic continuity of David’s line despite the challenges faced by the kingdom. Each mention of Attai in scripture ties him to themes of providence, loyalty, and divine purpose, reinforcing the name’s meaning and spiritual significance.
Divine Proximity Metrics
Biblical References
- 1 Chronicles 2:36
- 1 Chronicles 2:35
- 1 Chronicles 2:34
- 1 Chronicles 12:11
- 2 Chronicles 11:20