Othni עׇתְנִי
Son of Shemaiah, gatekeeper of the ark
Who is Othni in the Bible?
Othni was a son of Shemaiah and a Levite gatekeeper responsible for guarding the ark of the covenant, as recorded in 1 Chronicles 26:7. He came from the family of Obed-Edom and was part of an organized group of temple gatekeepers who protected the entrances and sacred items within the temple. According to the biblical account, Othni and his brothers were described as capable and strong men, well-suited for their important duties. His mention in Scripture underscores the vital role that Levites played in maintaining security around the temple's most sacred objects and spaces.
Biography
Othni was one of the sons of Shemaiah, a Levite from the family of Obed-Edom (1Ch.26.7). He is mentioned in the context of the organization of the gatekeepers who were responsible for guarding the entrances to the temple and the storerooms containing the sacred items. Othni and his brothers were described as capable men with the strength to do their work (1Ch.26.7). They were assigned to serve as gatekeepers for the ark of the covenant, ensuring its security and proper handling. The mention of Othni in this passage highlights the importance of the Levites' roles in maintaining the sacred spaces and objects in the temple.
Family
Siblings
- Rephael Tribe of LeviSon of ShemaiahA gatekeeper of the temple during David's reignView full profile →
- Obed MaleDavid's warriorIshmaelite warrior in David's armyView full profile →
- Elzabad MaleDavid's warriorA Gadite warrior who joined David at Ziklag.View full profile →
- Elihu Tribe of LeviSon of ShemaiahA gatekeeper of the temple, son of Shemaiah.View full profile →
- Semachiah Tribe of LeviSon of ShemaiahSon of Shemaiah, gatekeeper of the templeView full profile →
In Scripture
1 biblical book1 Chronicles 1 verse
- 1 Chronicles 26:7
"Shemaiah’s sons were Othni, Rephael, Obed, and Elzabad; his brothers were Elihu and Semachiah, also capable men."
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | עׇתְנִי |
Othni
, Caleb's younger brother. He conquered Kiriath-sepher, later known as Debir, in the territory of Judah in the days of Joshua, and was given the daughter of Caleb,