עׇתְנִי (ot.ni)
ot.ni
Othni
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 Otini appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, recorded in 1 Chronicles 26:7 as a Levite serving during the period of the divided monarchy. He is identified as the son of Shemaiah and the eldest brother among several siblings, including Obed-edom, who managed the temple gates. This single mention places him within a prominent family responsible for sacred duties in Jerusalem.
Etymologically, Otini means "lion of Jehovah," combining the word for lion with the divine name Yahweh. This type of theophoric naming was common among Israelites, reflecting faith and identity through association with God. The name suggests strength and courage, qualities valued in those serving in the temple.
Though brief, this reference highlights how ordinary individuals were part of larger spiritual narratives. Otini’s inclusion shows that even lesser-known figures contributed to religious life. His family’s role underscores the importance of lineage and service in ancient Israelite worship.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The name Othni means "lion of Jehovah," a powerful reminder that strength in Scripture is always tied to God. In 1 Chronicles 26:7, we meet Othni as part of a family tasked with guarding the temple gates. This was not a role for the faint-hearted; it required vigilance and courage. Yet, his strength is described as coming from the Lord, showing us that true power is found in faithful service rather than personal might.
It is easy to feel insignificant when we are not leading or speaking publicly. Othni’s story encourages us by showing that God values quiet loyalty just as much as visible leadership. Serving behind the scenes, whether in our homes or communities, is a sacred act. When we offer our daily efforts to God, we become part of His enduring work, standing firm like lions in our faith.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- Othni1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- עָ֠תְנִי1×
Key Verses
-
I Chronicles 26:7
The sons of Shemaiah: Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad, whose relatives were valiant men, Elihu, and Semachiah.
This verse identifies Othni as a valiant Levite, linking the concept of spiritual strength directly to his role in temple service.