### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĔvîy**, represented by `{{H189}}`, identifies a specific **Midianitish chief**. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, indicating it is a proper name for a single individual. The name itself is defined as **desirous**, but its use in scripture is strictly to identify this person within a historical account.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H189}}` appears in two parallel accounts listing enemy leaders who were defeated by Israel. The first instance names **Evi** as one of the five **kings** of Midian who were **slain** by the Israelites during their campaign [[Numbers 31:8]]. The second account in Joshua recounts this same event, identifying **Evi** as one of the **princes** of Midian whom Moses **smote**. This passage adds that these leaders were also **dukes** of Sihon, the Amorite king, who dwelled in the land [[Joshua 13:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the status and fate of Evi:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title is directly applied to Evi, establishing his royal status as one of the five **kings** of Midian who were defeated by Israel [[Numbers 31:8]].
* `{{H5387}}` **nâsîyʼ** (captain, chief, prince, ruler): This term is also used to describe Evi and his peers, classifying them as **princes** of Midian who fell under judgment [[Joshua 13:21]].
* `{{H5257}}` **nᵉçîyk** (duke, prince): Evi is further designated as one of the **dukes** of Sihon, which highlights his role as a vassal ruler allied with or under the authority of the Amorite king [[Joshua 13:21]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H189}}` is tied entirely to the narrative of Israel's victory and God's judgment.
* **Hostile Leadership:** Evi is exclusively portrayed as part of the leadership structure of Israel's enemies. His titles of **king**, **prince**, and **duke** underscore that Israel's victory was over an established and organized political power.
* **Recipient of Judgment:** The sole reason for mentioning Evi is to record his death. He was **slain** `{{H2026}}` and **smitten** `{{H5221}}` along with the other Midianite rulers, signifying the complete destruction of their command.
* **Political Alliance:** The reference to Evi as a **duke** of Sihon illustrates the interconnected political landscape that Israel confronted, linking the defeat of the Midianite leaders to the broader victory over the kingdom of the Amorites [[Joshua 13:21]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʼĔvîy** `{{H189}}` is not a conceptual term but the proper name of a Midianite chief. His importance in the biblical text is to serve as a historical marker of Israel's conquest. By identifying him as a **king** of Midian and a **duke** under King Sihon, the narrative emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the victory God gave to Israel over the allied leadership of the region.
TRV