עֲמַשְׁסַי (a.mash.say)
a.mash.say
Amashsai
N:N-M-PQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- N:N-M-P
Word Overview
The name Amashsai identifies a specific Levite priest active during the period of the Exile and Return. He appears in the biblical record as the son of Adiel, with his lineage noted in 1 Chronicles 9:12. This same individual is identified by a variant spelling, Amashai, in Nehemiah 11:13, where he is described as the son of Azareel.
Lexical sources indicate that the name translates to "burdensome." While this Hebrew word functions primarily as a proper noun rather than a theological concept, its occurrence highlights the importance of genealogical records in preserving the identity of those who served in the restored community. The variation between Amashsai and Amashai reflects common linguistic shifts in how names were recorded across different books of the historical texts.
Because this entry refers to a single person rather than a general term, its significance lies in its role within the broader narrative of post-exilic leadership. It connects two distinct scriptural accounts through a shared family line, illustrating how the priesthood was maintained and tracked during the rebuilding of Jerusalem.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Names like Amashsai often feel distant to modern readers, yet they anchor our faith in real history. This Levite priest appears in the records of those who returned from exile to rebuild Jerusalem’s spiritual life. His name means "burdensome," a reminder that serving God often involves heavy responsibilities and hard work.
When you read about his lineage in Nehemiah, it shows how carefully the community tracked their heritage. This wasn't just paperwork; it was about preserving identity and duty during a time of great uncertainty. It encourages us to value our own place in the church family and the roles we are called to serve.
God remembers those who show up for His work, even when the task feels heavy. Your faithful service today is recorded just as surely as theirs was then. Rest in the knowledge that your contributions matter to God’s ongoing story.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ Amashsai1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וַ/עֲמַשְׁסַ֧י1×
Key Verses
-
Nehemiah 11:13
and his brothers, chiefs of fathers’ households, two hundred forty-two; and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth, the son of Immer,
This verse lists Amashsai among the chiefs of fathers’ households, highlighting his leadership role in the restored priestly community.