the same as חֹדֶשׁ; Chodesh, an Israelitess; Hodesh.
Transliteration:Chôdesh
Pronunciation:kho'-desh
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma חֹדֶשׁ (Chôdesh), transliterated as Hodesh, is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates it refers to an Israelitess. While the common noun חֹדֶשׁ (chodesh, `{{H2320}}`) signifies "new moon" or "month," this particular Strong's number (`{{H2321}}`) designates a specific individual bearing this name. Thus, its semantic range is limited to its identity as a personal appellation. The name itself likely derives its meaning from the concept of the "new moon," potentially indicating a birth during such a time or bearing a symbolic connection to the lunar cycle and its significance in Israelite life.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The proper noun Hodesh (`{{H2321}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, within the genealogical records of the tribe of Benjamin:
* [[1 Chronicles 8:9]]: "And Hodesh his wife bore him Jobab, Zibia, Mesha, Malcam, Jeuz, Sachia, and Mirmah. These were his sons, heads of fathers' houses."
In this sole occurrence, Hodesh is identified as one of the wives of Shaharaim, a descendant of Benjamin. The context is purely genealogical, listing her as the mother of seven sons who became heads of their own households. Her inclusion in this detailed lineage underscores the meticulous nature of biblical record-keeping, particularly concerning the perpetuation of families and the tribal structure of Israel. While her personal story is not elaborated, her role as a mother is highlighted, emphasizing her contribution to the continuity of the Benjaminite line. The mention of multiple wives for Shaharaim (including Hushim and Baara in earlier verses) reflects the polygamous practices common in that era, though not necessarily endorsed by divine law.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the common noun חֹדֶשׁ (chodesh, `{{H2320}}`), from which the personal name Hodesh is derived. This noun refers to the "new moon" or a "month" (a lunar cycle). The new moon was a significant marker in the Israelite calendar, observed with special sacrifices and celebrations (e.g., [[Numbers 28:11-15]], [[1 Samuel 20:5-6]], [[Isaiah 1:13]]). It marked the beginning of each new month, influencing agricultural, social, and religious life.
Other related concepts include:
* **Genealogy:** The primary context for Hodesh's appearance is a genealogical list. Biblical genealogies serve to establish lineage, demonstrate the fulfillment of promises, and trace the heritage of the covenant people (e.g., [[Genesis 5]], [[Matthew 1]]).
* **Biblical Names and Their Meanings:** Many biblical names carry significant meanings, often reflecting circumstances of birth, character, or prophetic hope. The name Hodesh, "new moon," could subtly connect to themes of new beginnings or divine ordering.
* **Women in Genealogies:** While patriarchal, biblical genealogies occasionally include women, especially when they are pivotal to the lineage or bear notable children, as Hodesh does by being listed as the mother of seven sons.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun appearing only once in a genealogical list, the direct theological significance of Hodesh (`{{H2321}}`) is indirect. However, her inclusion, however brief, speaks to several broader theological points:
1. **Divine Providence in Human Lineage:** The meticulous preservation of genealogies in Scripture, even down to individuals like Hodesh, points to God's sovereign oversight of human history and the unfolding of His redemptive plan. Every individual, no matter how briefly mentioned, plays a part in the grand narrative.
2. **The Importance of Covenant Continuity:** Genealogies were crucial for demonstrating the continuity of the covenant people and the fulfillment of God's promises, particularly those related to the descendants of Abraham and the eventual lineage of the Messiah. Hodesh's role as a mother contributing to the Benjaminite tribe underscores this continuity.
3. **Symbolism of the Name:** While speculative, the name "Hodesh" (new moon) could subtly evoke themes of renewal, new beginnings, or the divinely ordered cycles of creation. These themes are deeply embedded in Israelite theology and worship, especially concerning the *mo'adim* (appointed times).
4. **Value of Every Life:** The Bible, even in its most concise records, values individual lives and their contributions, however seemingly small. Hodesh is not just a statistical entry; she is a person through whom a significant line was perpetuated.
### Summary
Hodesh (`{{H2321}}`, חֹדֶשׁ) is a unique proper noun, referring to an Israelitess mentioned once in the biblical text. Her sole appearance is in [[1 Chronicles 8:9]], where she is identified as one of Shaharaim's wives and the mother of seven sons within the tribe of Benjamin's genealogy. Derived from the common noun for "new moon" or "month" (`{{H2320}}`), her name subtly connects to the significant lunar cycles and religious observances of ancient Israel. While her personal story remains untold, her inclusion in the biblical record highlights the meticulous nature of divine providence in human lineage, the importance of covenant continuity, and the value of every individual within God's unfolding plan.
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