### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma יָלוֹן (Yâlôwn), transliterated as Yâlôwn (Strong's H3210), is a proper noun derived from the verbal root לוּן (luwn) `{{H3885}}`. This root primarily signifies "to lodge," "to stay overnight," or "to dwell." Therefore, the name Yâlôwn inherently carries the meaning of "lodging" or "one who lodges/dwells." As a personal name, its semantic range is confined to this etymological sense, pointing to concepts of habitation, rest, or temporary dwelling. It does not possess a broader semantic field beyond its function as an identifier.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Yâlôwn (Jalon) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically within the genealogical records of the tribe of Judah.
* [[1 Chronicles 4:17]]: "And the sons of Ezra were Jether, and Mered, and Epher, and Jalon; and she bare Miriam, and Shammai, and Ishbah the father of Eshtemoa."
In this sole occurrence, Jalon is listed as one of the four sons of Ezra (not the scribe Ezra, but another individual of the same name within the tribe of Judah). The context is purely genealogical, serving to enumerate descendants within a specific lineage. As a proper noun in a list, its primary function is identification rather than conveying an active role or theological message through its presence in the narrative. Its placement within the chronicler's detailed genealogies underscores the importance of tribal and family identity in ancient Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for יָלוֹן (Yâlôwn) is its root, לוּן (luwn) `{{H3885}}`. This root is widely used in the Old Testament to describe the act of spending the night, lodging, or dwelling. Examples include:
* [[Genesis 28:11]]: Jacob *lodging* in a certain place.
* [[Exodus 15:21]]: Used in a different sense, "to murmur" or "complain," but linguistically related through shared form, though semantically distinct from the "lodging" sense. For Yâlôwn, the "lodging" sense is paramount.
* [[Joshua 3:1]]: Joshua and the Israelites *lodging* near the Jordan.
Concepts related to Yâlôwn through its root include:
* **Dwelling/Habitation:** The idea of a settled place of residence.
* **Rest/Repose:** The temporary cessation of travel or activity, finding a place to rest.
* **Sojourning:** Living as a temporary resident in a place.
* **Hospitality:** The act of providing lodging to others.
These concepts are fundamental to the biblical narrative, often describing God's provision for His people's dwelling (e.g., in the land, the Tabernacle, the Temple) or humanity's journey toward an ultimate rest.
### Theological Significance
As a proper name appearing only once in a genealogical list, Yâlôwn (Jalon) does not carry significant direct theological weight or contribute to a major doctrinal theme. Its theological significance is primarily indirect, stemming from the etymology of its root.
The concept of "lodging" or "dwelling" (לוּן `{{H3885}}`) is deeply resonant throughout Scripture. It speaks to:
* **Divine Provision:** God often provides a "lodging place" or "dwelling" for His people, whether in the wilderness (e.g., [[Exodus 16:13]]), in the Promised Land (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 12:10]]), or ultimately in His presence (e.g., [[Psalm 23:6]]).
* **Human Transience:** The act of "lodging" can subtly remind us of the transient nature of human life on earth, pointing towards a longing for an eternal, permanent dwelling (e.g., [[Hebrews 11:13-16]], [[John 14:2-3]]).
* **God's Immanence:** God's desire to "dwell" among His people (e.g., the Tabernacle, the Temple, and ultimately in Christ and His Spirit) is a central theological truth.
While Jalon's name does not explicitly state these truths, its etymological roots connect it to these broader biblical themes of divine provision, human pilgrimage, and the ultimate search for a secure and lasting habitation in God. The preservation of his name in the genealogies also speaks to God's faithfulness in maintaining the lineage of His chosen people.
### Summary
The Hebrew word יָלוֹן (Yâlôwn) `{{H3210}}` is a proper noun meaning "lodging" or "one who lodges/dwells." It is derived from the root לוּן (luwn) `{{H3885}}`, which signifies "to lodge" or "to dwell." This name appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 4:17]], where Jalon is listed as a son of Ezra within the genealogies of the tribe of Judah. While not a carrier of direct theological doctrine, its etymology connects it to significant biblical concepts such as divine provision for habitation, the transient nature of human life, and the ultimate quest for a secure dwelling. As a name preserved in the sacred record, it subtly points to God's careful preservation of His people's lineages and His ongoing faithfulness.
TRV