The Hebrew word Yôwshibyâh, represented by H3143, is a proper name meaning Jehovah will cause to dwell. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its composition, from the words for "dwell" (יָשַׁב) and God's name (יָהּ), points to a declaration of faith in God's power to provide a secure and settled place for His people.
The single biblical appearance of H3143 is within a genealogical record in 1 Chronicles. The verse lists several descendants of Simeon, identifying Jehu as the "son of Josibiah" 1 Chronicles 4:35. In this context, the name serves a purely historical function, establishing the specific ancestry of Jehu by naming his father, Josibiah, grandfather, Seraiah, and great-grandfather, Asiel.
The verse containing H3143 connects it to several other key individuals and concepts within the lineage:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is essential to the structure of the passage, establishing the generational links between Asiel, Seraiah, Josibiah, and Jehu 1 Chronicles 4:35.
- H3058 Yêhûwʼ (Jehovah (is) He; Jehu): This is the name of Josibiah's son. The lineage provided in 1 Chronicles 4:35 serves to identify this specific Jehu.
- H8304 Sᵉrâyâh (Jah has prevailed; Serajah): This is the name of Josibiah's father, placing H3143 within a line of theophoric names that declare God's character and actions 1 Chronicles 4:35.
- H6221 ʻĂsîyʼêl (made of God; Asiel): As Josibiah's grandfather, Asiel's name further anchors the family's identity in their relationship with God 1 Chronicles 4:35.
While appearing only once, the name H3143 carries theological weight through its definition.
- Promise of Stability: The meaning "Jehovah will cause to dwell" is a powerful statement. In a world of exile and displacement, such a name would serve as a constant prayer or declaration of hope in God's faithfulness to settle His people.
- Genealogical Identity: Within a genealogy, the name signifies that the family's very existence and place are attributed to God's direct action. It is not just a label but a testimony embedded within the family history.
- Theophoric Naming: Like other names in its immediate lineage such as Seraiah and Asiel, the name Josibiah is a theophoric name, meaning it incorporates the name of God. This practice highlights a culture where one's identity was deeply intertwined with one's faith.
In summary, H3143 is a rare biblical name whose significance lies almost entirely in its meaning. Found only in the genealogy of 1 Chronicles 4:35, Yôwshibyâh marks an individual in the lineage of Simeon. More importantly, the name itself—Jehovah will cause to dwell—acts as a concise statement of faith, underscoring the biblical theme of God's role as the one who establishes and secures His people.
TRV