from בָּלַהּ; timid; Bilhan, the name of an Edomite and of an Israelite; Bilhan.
Transliteration:Bilhân
Pronunciation:bil-hawn'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper noun בִּלְהָן (Bilhân, `{{H1092}}`) is derived from the root בָּלָה (balah), which carries the core meaning of "to be terrified," "to be dismayed," or "to be worn out, consumed." Consequently, the name Bilhân itself is understood to mean "timid" or "afflicted," reflecting a state of fear, apprehension, or perhaps even physical exhaustion or decay. As a personal name, its semantic range is tied to the individual bearing it, but the etymological root provides a deeper layer of meaning, suggesting an inherent characteristic or a circumstance present at the time of naming.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Bilhân appears in the Old Testament in two distinct contexts, referring to two different individuals:
1. **An Edomite Chief:** Bilhân is listed as one of the chiefs (אלוּף, aluph) of Edom, a son of Ezer, who was a Horite and a descendant of Seir. He is mentioned in the genealogies of Esau's descendants, specifically in [[Genesis 36:27]] and its parallel in [[1 Chronicles 1:42]]. These passages serve to trace the lineage and establish the tribal structure of the nations descended from Esau, highlighting their distinct identity alongside the Israelites. His inclusion underscores the meticulous nature of biblical record-keeping regarding the peoples surrounding Israel.
2. **An Israelite Benjaminite:** Bilhân is also identified as a son of Jediael, a Benjaminite, and a "mighty man of valor" (גִּבּוֹרֵי חַיִל, gibborei chayil) in [[1 Chronicles 7:10]]. This Bilhân is part of a detailed genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin, emphasizing their strength and military prowess. The juxtaposition of a name meaning "timid" with the description "mighty man of valor" is notable. This could be an instance of an ironic name, or it might suggest that the individual's character transcended the literal meaning of his name. Alternatively, if the root's meaning of "worn out" is emphasized, it could imply endurance or resilience, which are qualities of a mighty warrior.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verbal root בָּלָה (balah, `{{H1086}}`), which signifies "to be terrified, dismayed" or "to wear out, consume." Other forms of this root include בָּלֶה (baleh, `{{H1088}}`), meaning "worn out" (as an adjective for garments). While Bilhân is a unique proper noun, its connection to this root places it within a semantic field related to human vulnerability, fear, and the effects of time or distress. Genealogies are the primary literary context for Bilhân, linking him to the broader biblical themes of lineage, tribal identity, and historical continuity.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, Bilhân does not possess direct theological significance in the manner of divine attributes or covenant terms. However, its inclusion in the biblical text offers subtle insights:
* **Divine Sovereignty in Naming and Calling:** The apparent paradox of a "mighty man of valor" bearing a name meaning "timid" can be seen as a quiet testament to God's ability to use individuals for His purposes regardless of their inherent disposition or the circumstances of their birth and naming. God often works through those who might seem unlikely or even weak, demonstrating that His power is perfected in weakness ([[2 Corinthians 12:9]]).
* **Genealogical Preservation:** The meticulous recording of Bilhân in both Edomite and Israelite genealogies highlights the biblical emphasis on lineage. For Israel, this was crucial for establishing tribal identity, land inheritance, and ultimately, the messianic line. The preservation of these records underscores God's faithfulness in maintaining His covenant people and orchestrating history.
* **Human Condition:** The root meaning of "timid" or "worn out" subtly points to the universal human experience of fear, vulnerability, and the effects of a fallen world. Even within the grand narrative of salvation history, the Bible acknowledges the realities of the human condition.
### Summary
Bilhân (`{{H1092}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun derived from the root בָּלָה (balah, `{{H1086}}`), meaning "timid" or "worn out." The name appears in the Old Testament referring to two distinct individuals: an Edomite chief, a son of Ezer, mentioned in the genealogies of Esau's descendants ([[Genesis 36:27]], [[1 Chronicles 1:42]]); and an Israelite Benjaminite, a son of Jediael, notably described as a "mighty man of valor" ([[1 Chronicles 7:10]]). The contrast between the name's meaning ("timid") and the Benjaminite's description ("mighty man of valor") may subtly underscore God's ability to use individuals irrespective of perceived inherent characteristics. The primary function of Bilhân's inclusion in Scripture is to establish and preserve genealogical records, reflecting the meticulous nature of biblical history and the divine oversight of human lineage.
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