from an unused root (probably meaning firm or capacious in resources); apparently; wealthy; princes.
Transliteration:chashman
Pronunciation:khash-man'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term חַשְׁמַן (chashman, `{{H2831}}`) is derived from an unused root, which is posited to convey the sense of being "firm" or "capacious in resources." This etymological foundation suggests an underlying meaning related to stability, strength, and abundance. From this conceptual root, the word develops into the concrete meanings of "wealthy" or, more commonly, "princes." The transition from a quality (being resourceful/wealthy) to a status (prince) is significant, implying that those who are "chashman" possess not only material wealth but also the inherent authority and influence that accompany such resources and position. The "apparently" in the base definition may indicate that its precise etymological link to the root is inferred rather than directly attested, or that its primary usage is as a title.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word חַשְׁמַן (chashman, `{{H2831}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, making its sole occurrence particularly weighty for interpretive purposes.
* **[[Psalm 68:31]]**: "Princes (חַשְׁמַן) shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God."
* This verse occurs within Psalm 68, a majestic and triumphal psalm celebrating God's powerful acts of deliverance and His ultimate sovereignty. The psalm recounts God's leading of His people, His dwelling on Zion, and the nations bringing tribute to Him.
* The mention of "princes" from Egypt, alongside Ethiopia stretching out her hands, is highly significant. Egypt was historically Israel's oppressor and a symbol of worldly power and idolatry. Ethiopia (Cush) represented the distant nations. The imagery here portrays a future scenario—often understood eschatologically—where even powerful, formerly antagonistic nations will acknowledge Yahweh and bring tribute.
* The use of "chashman" specifically for these Egyptian dignitaries emphasizes their high status, wealth, and authority. It is not merely common people but the very elite, the rulers, who will come forth in submission and worship. This underscores the comprehensive nature of God's dominion, extending even to the highest echelons of foreign powers.
### Related Words & Concepts
While חַשְׁמַן (chashman, `{{H2831}}`) is unique in its direct usage, its meaning connects to several broader biblical concepts and related terms:
* **Wealth and Resources**: The underlying root meaning suggests a connection to concepts of abundance and capacity. Related terms for wealth include עוֹשֶׁר (osher, `{{H6160}}`), meaning "riches," and חַיִל (chayil, `{{H2428}}`), which can denote strength, valor, or wealth.
* **Rulers and Nobility**: The primary translated meaning "princes" links it to other Hebrew words for leaders and dignitaries:
* שַׂר (sar, `{{H8269}}`): A very common term for prince, chief, or official.
* נָשִׂיא (nasi, `{{H5081}}`): A prince, leader, or tribal chief, often with a sense of elevated status.
* נָדִיב (nadiv, `{{H5057}}`): Noble, willing, or prince, often implying generosity or high birth.
* מֶלֶךְ (melekh, `{{H4428}}`): King.
* **Universal Sovereignty**: The context of [[Psalm 68:31]] relates to the theme of God's dominion over all nations, a concept found throughout the prophets and psalms (e.g., [[Psalm 2:8]], [[Isaiah 2:2-4]], [[Zechariah 14:16]]). The bringing of tribute by foreign rulers signifies their acknowledgment of Yahweh's supreme authority.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of חַשְׁמַן (chashman, `{{H2831}}`) in [[Psalm 68:31]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a powerful prophetic declaration of God's ultimate and universal sovereignty.
1. **God's Triumph Over Worldly Powers**: The "princes from Egypt" represent the epitome of worldly power and opposition to God and His people. Their coming forth signifies the complete subjugation and willing submission of all earthly authority, wealth, and influence to the divine King. This underscores that no nation, no ruler, however mighty, can ultimately stand against the Lord.
2. **Global Scope of Redemption/Worship**: The verse paints a picture of a future era where the knowledge and worship of God will extend beyond Israel to all nations. Not only will the common people come, but their very leaders, the "chashman," will acknowledge Him. This speaks to the expansive nature of God's kingdom and the eventual ingathering of all peoples into His worship.
3. **Tribute as Acknowledgment**: The act of coming and stretching out hands (often implying supplication or offering) by these princes is an act of homage and tribute. It signifies an acknowledgment of God's supremacy and a willingness to serve Him, bringing their wealth and power into His service rather than opposing Him. This transforms former adversaries into worshippers.
### Summary
The Hebrew word חַשְׁמַן (chashman, `{{H2831}}`) is a rare but significant term, denoting "wealthy" or "princes," stemming from an unused root suggesting firmness and abundant resources. Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Psalm 68:31]] is highly impactful, portraying a future vision where "princes" from powerful nations like Egypt will come forth to acknowledge and worship God. This singular usage powerfully conveys the theological truth of God's ultimate and universal sovereignty, demonstrating that all worldly power, wealth, and authority will eventually bow before Him, transforming former adversaries into willing worshippers and contributors to His glorious kingdom.
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