from the same as גּוּשׁ; lumpish; Geshan, an Israelite; Geshan.
Transliteration:Gêyshân
Pronunciation:gay-shawn'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma גֵּישָׁן (Gêyshân), Strong's number `{{H1529}}`, is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from the same root as גּוּשׁ (gûsh), Strong's number `{{H1472}}`, which signifies "a lump" or "a clod." Thus, the name Gêyshân is etymologically linked to the concept of being "lumpish" or "cloddy." It is crucial to understand that while the root suggests a physical characteristic, the name itself functions as an identifier for an individual, not necessarily implying that the person possessed a "lumpish" physical form or character. Like many ancient names, it may have originated from a descriptive term, a family trait, or even a geographical feature, but its primary function in the biblical text is as a unique designator within a lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Gêyshân (גֵּישָׁן) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the extensive genealogical records found in the book of 1 Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 2:47]]: "And the sons of Jahdai: Regem, and Jotham, and Geshan, and Pelet, and Ephah, and Shaaph."
This solitary occurrence places Geshan as one of the six sons of Jahdai. Jahdai, in turn, is listed among the descendants of Jerahmeel, who was a son of Hezron, a son of Perez, and ultimately a descendant of Judah (see [[1 Chronicles 2:3-4]], [[1 Chronicles 2:25]]). The context is purely genealogical, serving to meticulously record the lineage of the tribes of Israel. No further information is provided about Geshan's life, actions, or significance beyond his place in this family tree. The inclusion of such names, even those without an accompanying narrative, underscores the biblical emphasis on lineage, tribal identity, and the historical continuity of God's covenant people.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is גּוּשׁ (gûsh), Strong's number `{{H1472}}`, meaning "lump" or "clod." This root appears infrequently in the Old Testament, most notably in [[Job 7:5]], where Job describes his flesh as "clothed with worms and clods of dust." The derivation of a personal name from a word denoting a physical mass or a piece of earth is not uncommon in ancient Near Eastern naming conventions, where names often reflected natural elements, physical characteristics, or even abstract concepts. The broader concept illuminated by this word's usage is the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies. These lists, while seemingly dry to a modern reader, were vital for establishing tribal land rights, priestly succession, and, most significantly, the lineage through which the Messiah would eventually come. The inclusion of even seemingly minor figures like Geshan highlights the comprehensive scope of these records.
### Theological Significance
While Gêyshân himself is not a figure of theological discourse or action, his inclusion in the biblical text carries indirect theological significance.
1. **Divine Meticulousness:** The very presence of such a name in the inspired Word speaks to God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign oversight of history. Every individual, even those without a narrative, holds a place in His divine plan and the unfolding story of His people.
2. **Preservation of Lineage:** The genealogies in Chronicles serve to affirm the identity and continuity of Israel after the exile. They are a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving His chosen people through generations, even amidst periods of scattering and hardship. The inclusion of Geshan's name contributes to this overarching theme of divine preservation.
3. **Humanity's Place in God's Plan:** Each name in a genealogy represents a unique human life, a soul created by God. Even if their specific deeds are unrecorded, their existence is acknowledged by God and deemed worthy of inclusion in His sacred text. This subtly underscores the value God places on every individual within the covenant community.
4. **Historicity and Reality:** The detailed nature of these lists, including names like Geshan, lends weight to the historicity of the biblical narrative. It grounds the grand theological themes in the concrete reality of human lives and historical events.
### Summary
Gêyshân (`{{H1529}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, a personal name derived from the root meaning "lump" or "clod" (`{{H1472}}`). It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 2:47]], where it identifies one of the sons of Jahdai within the extensive genealogies of the tribe of Judah. While no specific actions or narratives are attributed to Geshan, his inclusion is significant. It underscores the biblical emphasis on the meticulous preservation of lineage, reflecting God's sovereign oversight of history and His faithfulness to His covenant people. The presence of such names, even without accompanying stories, testifies to the divine valuing of every individual within the sweep of redemptive history and the historical veracity of the sacred record.
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