The Hebrew word Yôshavyâh, represented by H3145, is an Israelite personal name meaning Jehovah-set. It is derived from the words יְהֹוָה (Jehovah) and שָׁוָה (shavah). This name is exceptionally rare in the biblical text, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse.
The sole appearance of Yôshavyâh is in a genealogical list within the book of Chronicles. In this passage, he is identified as one of "the sons of Elnaam" 1 Chronicles 11:46. The verse places him alongside his brother, Jeribai, and other figures such as Eliel the Mahavite and Ithmah the Moabite, though his own narrative is not expanded upon beyond this mention of his lineage.
Several related words from its only context help clarify the identity of Yôshavyâh:
- H493 'Elnaʻam (God is his delight; Elnaam, an Israelite): This is the name of Joshaviah's father, establishing his direct parentage 1 Chronicles 11:46.
- H3403 Yᵉrîybay (contentious; Jeribai, an Israelite): This is the name of Joshaviah's brother, listed with him as a son of Elnaam 1 Chronicles 11:46.
- H1121 bên (a son): This word defines the relationship of Joshaviah and Jeribai to their father, Elnaam, signifying their role as builders of the family name 1 Chronicles 11:46.
While limited in usage, the name Yôshavyâh carries significance through its meaning and context:
- Divine Establishment: The name's definition, "Jehovah-set," directly implies an identity or destiny established and ordained by God.
- Genealogical Importance: His inclusion in the Chronicler's record, even as a single entry, highlights the biblical value placed on preserving individual lineage and identity within the larger community of Israel 1 Chronicles 11:46.
- Theophoric Context: Yôshavyâh is listed among individuals with theophoric names (names referencing God), including his father 'Elnaʻam H493, meaning "God (is his) delight," and Eliel H447, meaning "God of (his) God." This shared characteristic suggests a family culture where God's identity was foundational.
In summary, H3145 Yôshavyâh provides a concise but meaningful example of a biblical personal name. Though mentioned only once, its definition of "Jehovah-set" and its placement within a specific family lineage in 1 Chronicles 11:46 serve as a reminder of the significance of every individual's place within the divinely recorded history of Israel.
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