of uncertain derivation; Gishpa, an Israelite; Gispa.
Transliteration:Gishpâʼ
Pronunciation:ghish-paw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term גִּשְׁפָּא (Gishpâʼ), Strong's number `{{H1658}}`, denotes a proper noun, specifically the name of an individual. Its base definition indicates an "uncertain derivation," meaning its etymological root and inherent meaning are not definitively known or directly discernible from related Hebrew words. Consequently, its semantic range is singularly restricted to identifying this particular person. Unlike common nouns or verbs, which carry a range of meanings and applications, גִּשְׁפָּא functions solely as a designator for a specific Israelite, Gispa. Any deeper "meaning" must be derived from the context of his appearance in the biblical text rather than from the lexical structure of the name itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name גִּשְׁפָּא (Gishpâʼ) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[1 Chronicles 9:12]]. The verse reads: "And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malchijah, and Maasai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer; and their brethren, mighty men of valor, a hundred seventy and two, very able for the work of the service of the house of God. And their brethren that did the work of the gates were Akkub, Talmon, and their brethren, Gishpa and Akkub, of the house of the porters."
In this context, Gishpa is listed among the "brethren that did the work of the gates," identifying him as a gatekeeper or porter in the temple service during the post-exilic period. This chapter in 1 Chronicles provides a detailed genealogy and census of those who returned from Babylonian exile and resettled in Jerusalem, specifically highlighting the priests, Levites, and various temple servants. Gishpa's inclusion in this list underscores his role in the organized worship and maintenance of the Second Temple. His mention, alongside others, emphasizes the re-establishment of the divinely ordained temple service and the meticulous accounting of those involved in its various functions.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given the "uncertain derivation" of `{{H1658}}`, there are no directly related Hebrew words in terms of etymology. However, the concept of "names" and "naming" itself is profoundly significant in biblical theology. Proper nouns, especially those recorded in genealogies and lists of service (like in 1 Chronicles), serve several crucial functions:
1. **Identity and Lineage:** Names establish individual identity and connect people to their family lines and tribal affiliations, reinforcing the continuity of God's covenant people.
2. **Historical Record:** The meticulous recording of names like Gishpa reflects the biblical authors' commitment to historical accuracy and the preservation of communal memory.
3. **Service and Vocation:** Gishpa's role as a gatekeeper connects him to the broader concept of *avodah* (service/worship), which encompasses all duties performed in the temple. This concept is also seen in the work of other temple servants, such as the Levites (e.g., `{{H3881}}` for Levi) and priests (e.g., `{{H3548}}` for *kohen*).
4. **Post-Exilic Restoration:** Gishpa's inclusion in the list of those who returned from exile highlights the theme of restoration and the re-establishment of the community in Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity. This era saw a renewed emphasis on temple worship and the proper ordering of society according to Mosaic law.
### Theological Significance
The inclusion of an individual like Gishpa, whose name appears only once and whose specific actions are not detailed, carries subtle yet profound theological significance:
1. **God's Meticulous Care:** The very act of recording Gishpa's name, along with others in a detailed list, speaks to God's meticulous care for every individual within His covenant community. No one, however seemingly minor their role, is overlooked by the divine record-keeper. This reflects a God who knows His people by name (cf. [[Isaiah 43:1]]).
2. **Dignity of All Service:** Gishpa's role as a gatekeeper, while perhaps not as prominent as a priest or prophet, was essential for the order and sanctity of the temple. His inclusion elevates the dignity of all service rendered to God, emphasizing that every function, no matter how humble, contributes to the sacred worship and life of the community (cf. [[1 Corinthians 12:12-27]]).
3. **Faithfulness in Restoration:** Gishpa was part of the generation that returned from exile, demonstrating faithfulness to God's call to rebuild Jerusalem and its temple. His presence in the list testifies to the commitment of ordinary individuals in the monumental task of national and spiritual restoration.
4. **Continuity of God's People:** The Chronicler's emphasis on genealogies and lists of temple servants underscores the continuity of God's covenant people through generations, even through periods of exile and disruption. Gishpa is a thread in the tapestry of God's unfolding redemptive history.
### Summary
Gishpa (גִּשְׁפָּא, `{{H1658}}`) is a proper noun, an Israelite whose name appears only once in [[1 Chronicles 9:12]]. Of uncertain derivation, the name itself offers no inherent meaning beyond identifying the individual. Contextually, Gishpa served as a gatekeeper in the post-exilic temple in Jerusalem, a role that was crucial for the order and sanctity of worship. His inclusion in the biblical record, despite his seemingly minor role, carries significant theological weight. It underscores God's meticulous attention to every individual within His covenant, dignifies all forms of service rendered to Him, and highlights the faithfulness of those who participated in the restoration of Israel after the Babylonian exile. Gishpa's name, though briefly mentioned, serves as a testament to the divine value placed on every member and every function within the community dedicated to the worship of the Lord.
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