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אוּזַי (u.zay)

u.zay

Uzai

H0186 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 1 verses

N:N-M-P

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N-M-P

Word Overview

The name Uzai appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in Nehemiah 3:25. It identifies a specific individual from Judah who participated in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls after the exile. The text places him as the father of Palal, linking two generations to this physical restoration project.

Linguistically, Uzai is interpreted to mean "I shall have my sprinklings." This definition likely refers to ritual purification or covenant rites involving water, a common theme in post-exilic Judah. The name reflects a personal or family devotion to the religious practices that defined their community’s identity during this period of renewal.

While Uzai is not a major biblical figure, his mention highlights the collective effort required to restore Jerusalem. The book of Nehemiah lists many such individuals, showing that the work was done by ordinary people, not just leaders. His name serves as a reminder that faithfulness often involves quiet, practical participation in God’s purposes.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Uzai appears only once in Scripture, tucked into a list of builders in Nehemiah 3:25. It identifies a man from Judah who helped repair Jerusalem’s walls after the exile. His work was practical and physical, yet it carried deep spiritual weight for a community rebuilding its identity.

Though we know little about him personally, his inclusion reminds us that God values quiet faithfulness. Restoration often depends on ordinary people doing their part without fanfare. This passage encourages us to see our own small contributions as meaningful in God’s larger story of renewal.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Uzai1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • אוּזַי֮1×

Key Verses

  • Nehemiah 3:25
    Palal the son of Uzai made repairs opposite the turning of the wall, and the tower that stands out from the upper house of the king, which is by the court of the guard. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh made repairs.

    This verse places Uzai as the father of Palal, linking two generations to the physical restoration project and highlighting the collective effort required to rebuild Jerusalem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Uzai mean?

The name Uzai is interpreted to mean "I shall have my sprinklings." This likely refers to ritual purification or covenant rites involving water, reflecting a devotion to religious practices common in post-exilic Judah.

Where does Uzai appear in the Bible?

Uzai appears only once, in Nehemiah 3:25. He is mentioned as the father of Palal, who made repairs to Jerusalem’s walls opposite the turning of the wall and near the king’s upper house.

Why is Uzai significant if he is not a major figure?

His significance lies in representing the many ordinary people who participated in restoring Jerusalem. While leaders like Nehemiah directed the work, individuals like Uzai contributed their labor, showing that faithfulness often involves quiet, practical participation.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)