### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Dîyshôwn**, represented by `{{H1787}}`, identifies two Edomites in the Old Testament. It appears 7 times across 6 unique verses. This name is recorded exclusively within the genealogical lists of Genesis and 1 Chronicles, where it serves to establish the lineage and leadership of the early inhabitants of the land of Seir.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H1787}}` is used to document the family lines of the Horites `{{H2752}}` in the land of Edom `{{H123}}`. Dishon is identified as one of the sons `{{H1121}}` of Seir `{{H8165}}` [[1 Chronicles 1:38]] and more specifically as a son `{{H1121}}` of Anah `{{H6034}}` [[Genesis 36:25]]. His name also signifies a position of authority, as he is listed as a "duke" `{{H441}}` of the Horites [[Genesis 36:21]]. The genealogies further record his descendants, listing his sons as Hemdan `{{H2533}}`, Eshban `{{H790}}`, Ithran `{{H3506}}`, and Cheran `{{H3763}}` in one account [[Genesis 36:26]], and Amram `{{H2566}}`, Eshban, Ithran, and Cheran in another [[1 Chronicles 1:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context surrounding the name Dishon:
* `{{H1789}}` **Dîyshân** (another form of דִּישׁוֹן; Dishan, an Edomite): This name is an alternate form of Dishon and appears alongside him as a brother and fellow "duke" `{{H441}}`, highlighting their close association within the Horite lineage [[Genesis 36:21]].
* `{{H2752}}` **Chôrîy** (cave-dweller or troglodyte; a Chorite or aboriginal Idumaean): This term identifies the people group to which Dishon belonged. Scripture explicitly names him as one of the "dukes of the Horites" [[Genesis 36:21]].
* `{{H441}}` **'allûwph** (familiar; a friend, also gentle; hence, a bullock (as being tame; applied, although masculine, to a cow); and so, a chieftain (as notable, like neat cattle); captain, duke, (chief) friend, governor, guide, ox): Translated as "duke," this title denotes Dishon's status as a chieftain among the original inhabitants of the land of Seir `{{H8165}}` [[Genesis 36:30]].
* `{{H8165}}` **Sêʻîyr** (rough; Seir, a mountain of Idumaea and its aboriginal occupants): This is the geographical region intrinsically linked to Dishon. He is listed as a son `{{H1121}}` of Seir and a duke within that land ([[1 Chronicles 1:38]], [[Genesis 36:30]]).
### Theological Significance
While not a word with direct theological exposition, the inclusion of `{{H1787}}` in scripture holds significance for the biblical record.
* **Genealogical Record:** The name **Dishon** is a key part of the detailed genealogies that preserve the history of the Horites, the aboriginal people of Seir. He is listed as a son `{{H1121}}` of Anah `{{H6034}}` [[Genesis 36:25]] and a son of Seir `{{H8165}}` [[1 Chronicles 1:38]].
* **Political and Territorial Context:** The title of "duke" `{{H441}}` associated with Dishon provides insight into the political structure of the people inhabiting the land of Edom `{{H123}}` prior to its full occupation by the descendants of Esau [[Genesis 36:21]].
* **Historical Foundation:** By documenting non-Israelite chieftains like Dishon, the biblical narrative establishes a comprehensive historical backdrop. These records outline the nations and peoples surrounding Israel, providing context for their future interactions.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1787}}` **Dîyshôwn** is a proper name whose importance is found in its function within biblical genealogies. It is not a word of deep theological meaning in itself, but it contributes to the scriptural account by identifying a specific Horite chieftain. The name helps construct the detailed historical and political landscape of early Edom, anchoring the larger biblical narrative in a specific time and place.
TRV