The Hebrew word Chûwshâm, represented by H2367, is the proper name of an Idumaean king. Derived from a root meaning "hastily," it appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage is exclusively within the genealogies of Edom, where it identifies a specific ruler in the line of kings.
In the biblical narrative, H2367 appears in the lists of Edomite kings found in Genesis and 1 Chronicles. The accounts are nearly identical, stating that Husham H2367 of the land H776 of Temani H8489 began to reign H4427 after his predecessor, Jobab H3103, died H4191 (Genesis 36:34, 1 Chronicles 1:45). His own reign concludes when Husham H2367 died H4191, and he was succeeded by Hadad H1908, the son H1121 of Bedad H911. The record notes that his successor was famous for having "smote H5221 Midian H4080 in the field H7704 of Moab H4124" and that the name H8034 of his city H5892 was Avith H5762 (Genesis 36:35, 1 Chronicles 1:46).
The context of Husham's life is defined by his role as a king and his place in a specific lineage:
- H4427 mâlak (to reign): This verb establishes Husham's status as a monarch who ascended the throne Genesis 36:34.
- H4191 mûwth (to die): This word marks the beginning and end of Husham's reign, highlighting the sequential nature of the Edomite kingship (Genesis 36:34, Genesis 36:35).
- H8489 Têymânîy (a Temanite): This descriptor specifies Husham's geographic origin, identifying him as a descendant of Teman from the land of the Temanites 1 Chronicles 1:45.
- H3103 Yôwbâb (Jobab): The name of Husham's predecessor. Husham's reign begins immediately after Jobab died H4191 Genesis 36:34.
- H1908 Hădad (Hadad): The name of Husham's successor, whose own famous deeds are recorded in relation to Husham's death Genesis 36:35.
While the name Chûwshâm H2367 itself does not carry direct theological weight, its placement in scripture highlights several themes:
- Orderly Succession: The mention of Husham is part of a structured genealogy that demonstrates a consistent pattern of rule: one king died H4191 and another reigned H4427 in his stead. This chronicles the history of a neighboring nation to Israel.
- Geographical Grounding: By identifying Husham as being from the "land H776 of Temani H8489," the text grounds the historical record in a real-world location, reinforcing the narrative's authenticity Genesis 36:34.
- Chronological Marker: Husham's reign serves as a vital historical placeholder. It is framed by the reign of Jobab H3103 before him and the reign of the more notable Hadad H1908 after, whose victory over Midian H4080 is a key event Genesis 36:35.
In summary, Chûwshâm H2367 is a name tied exclusively to an Idumaean king. He is not defined by any recorded actions or words but by his specific position in the royal lineage of Edom. The scriptures present him as a link in a chain of succession, taking the throne after Jobab H3103 and preceding Hadad H1908. Through his brief mentions, the biblical record establishes a clear historical and geographical context for the rulers of a nation significant to the history of Israel.
TRV