The Hebrew word Yibchar, represented by H2984, is a proper name meaning choice. According to its base definition, it refers to an Israelite named Jibchar, or Ibhar. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible.
In the biblical narrative, H2984 is used exclusively as the personal name Ibhar. It appears in genealogical lists alongside other names. For instance, in 2 Samuel 5:15, he is listed as "Ibhar also, and Elishua, and Nepheg, and Japhia." A similar listing occurs in 1 Chronicles 3:6, which names "Ibhar also, and Elishama, and Eliphelet," and in 1 Chronicles 14:5.
Several related words appear alongside Ibhar in these genealogical records:
- H474 ʼĔlîyshûwaʻ (God of supplication): This name appears with Ibhar in lists such as the one found in 2 Samuel 5:15.
- H5298 Nepheg (a sprout): This individual is mentioned with Ibhar and others in passages like 2 Samuel 5:15.
- H3309 Yâphîyaʻ (bright): This name, which can refer to an Israelite, is listed with Ibhar in 2 Samuel 5:15.
- H476 ʼĔlîyshâmâʻ (God of hearing): This name is found alongside Ibhar in the list in 1 Chronicles 3:6.
- H467 ʼĔlîypheleṭ (God of deliverance): Transliterated as Eliphelet or Elpalet, this name appears with Ibhar in both 1 Chronicles 3:6 and 1 Chronicles 14:5.
The significance of H2984 is drawn from its direct usage and meaning.
- A Proper Name: The word is used consistently as a personal name, Ibhar, identifying a specific Israelite.
- Root Meaning of "Choice": The name itself is derived from a root meaning "choice", as indicated by its base definition.
- Genealogical Marker: Its placement in biblical lists (2 Samuel 5:15, 1 Chronicles 3:6) serves to document a specific individual within a lineage.
In summary, H2984 is the proper name Ibhar, meaning "choice". Its biblical role is specific and consistent, appearing three times solely to identify an Israelite within genealogical records. While the name's meaning points to the concept of choice, its application in scripture is confined to its function as a personal name in these historical listings.
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