### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew proper name יוֹשַׁוְיָה (Yôwshavyâh), Strong's number `{{H3145}}`, is a theophoric compound name. Its base definition indicates a derivation from two primary elements: יְהֹוָה (YHWH), the sacred name of God, and the verb שָׁוָה (shavah), Strong's number `{{H7737}}`. The verb שָׁוָה carries a semantic range that includes "to be even, level, like, equal," but also "to set, place, appoint, lay." In the context of a personal name, the meaning "Jehovah-set" or "Jehovah has appointed/established" is the most fitting and widely accepted interpretation. This etymology suggests a parental declaration of divine involvement in the child's life, acknowledging God's sovereign hand in establishing or ordaining. As a proper noun, its semantic range is primarily defined by this etymological meaning rather than a broader conceptual field.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name יוֹשַׁוְיָה (Yôwshavyâh) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible. Its sole occurrence is found in:
* [[1 Chronicles 11:46]]: "Eliel the Mahavite, and Jeribai, and Joshaviah, the sons of Elnaam, and Ithmah the Moabite."
In this passage, Joshaviah is listed among the "mighty men" (גִּבֹּרִים, gibborim) of King David. Specifically, he is mentioned as one of the "sons of Elnaam," though his precise tribal or geographical affiliation ("the Mecheterathite" in some translations, or simply "the sons of Elnaam") is not entirely clear from the text. The context of [[1 Chronicles 11]] is a detailed enumeration of David's elite warriors, highlighting their valor and loyalty. While no specific deeds or narratives are attributed to Joshaviah beyond his inclusion in this esteemed list, his presence signifies his status as a significant figure within David's military elite, a testament to his strength, skill, or faithfulness. His inclusion in this revered company implicitly speaks to his character and contribution during a foundational period of Israelite history.
### Related Words & Concepts
The entry for `{{H3145}}` directly references a related name, יוֹשָׁה (Yôwshâh), Strong's number `{{H3146}}`. This name, also meaning "Jehovah-set," is likely a shortened or variant form of Joshaviah, sharing the same core theological meaning. Beyond this direct lexical relation, יוֹשַׁוְיָה connects to a broader category of theophoric names in the Hebrew Bible, which incorporate elements of the divine name YHWH (e.g., Jonathan, Jeremiah, Isaiah). These names serve as miniature theological statements, reflecting the parents' faith, prayers, or understanding of God's character and actions. The root שָׁוָה (shavah, `{{H7737}}`) itself, meaning "to set, appoint," is also found in other contexts, often describing God's act of establishing or ordaining. Concepts such as divine appointment, God's sovereignty, and the significance of names in ancient Israelite culture are implicitly linked to the meaning and usage of יוֹשַׁוְיָה.
### Theological Significance
The name יוֹשַׁוְיָה (Yôwshavyâh), meaning "Jehovah-set" or "Jehovah has appointed," carries profound theological significance. Firstly, as a theophoric name, it underscores the pervasive presence of God in the daily lives and worldview of ancient Israelites. Naming a child "Jehovah-set" was a public declaration of faith, acknowledging God's active role in creation, providence, and the individual's destiny. It speaks to a deep theological conviction that God is not distant but intimately involved in establishing and ordaining life. Secondly, the specific nuance of "set" or "appointed" suggests a divine purpose or calling. While the Bible does not elaborate on Joshaviah's specific divine appointment, his inclusion among David's mighty men could be seen as the fulfillment of such an ordination – God "setting" him in a position of strength and service to the kingdom. This concept reinforces the biblical understanding of God's sovereignty over human affairs, where individuals are placed in specific roles or circumstances according to His divine plan. The name thus serves as a quiet testimony to God's orchestrating hand in the lives of His people.
### Summary
The name יוֹשַׁוְיָה (Yôwshavyâh, `{{H3145}}`) is a theophoric Hebrew proper name meaning "Jehovah-set" or "Jehovah has appointed," derived from the divine name YHWH and the verb שָׁוָה (shavah, `{{H7737}}`). Its sole biblical occurrence is in [[1 Chronicles 11:46]], where Joshaviah is listed among King David's valiant "mighty men," indicating his status as a notable warrior. The name is closely related to יוֹשָׁה (Yôwshâh, `{{H3146}}`). Theologically, יוֹשַׁוְיָה highlights the Israelite practice of naming children to reflect divine attributes or actions, testifying to God's active sovereignty and His role in establishing and ordaining individuals for His purposes.
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