יַעֲקָן

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew name Yaʻăqân, represented by H3292, identifies a specific individual. The word is defined as "Jaakan, an Idumaean." It appears only 1 times across 1 unique verses in the entire biblical record, highlighting its very specific and limited role within the scriptures.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The single appearance of Yaʻăqân is within a genealogical list in the book of 1 Chronicles. He is named as one of the sons of Ezer, placing him within an Edomite lineage. The verse simply states, "The sons of Ezer; Bilhan, and Zavan, and Jakan" 1 Chronicles 1:42, serving to document this particular family line as part of a broader historical record.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of H3292 is established by the names listed alongside it in the genealogy:

• H687 ʼEtser (Ezer): Defined as "treasure; Etser, an Idumaean; Ezer." He is identified as the father of Yaʻăqân 1 Chronicles 1:42.
• H1092 Bilhân (Bilhan): Meaning "timid," this name belongs to an Edomite who is listed as a brother of Yaʻăqân 1 Chronicles 1:42.
• H2190 Zaʻăvân (Zavan): Defined as "disquiet," he is also listed as a son of Ezer and a brother of Yaʻăqân 1 Chronicles 1:42.
• H1121 bên (sons): This foundational word for "son" is used to establish the direct familial relationship of Yaʻăqân to his father, Ezer 1 Chronicles 1:42.

Theological Significance

The theological significance of H3292 is rooted entirely in its genealogical function. It does not carry symbolic weight on its own but contributes to a larger biblical theme.

• Genealogical Integrity: The inclusion of Yaʻăqân demonstrates the detailed preservation of ancestral lines, in this case, the lineage of the Idumaeans, or Edomites. This highlights the scriptural importance of historical and familial records.
• National Identity: By identifying Yaʻăqân as an Idumaean and placing him in the lineage of the sons of Seir 1 Chronicles 1:38, the text carefully delineates the history of the nations surrounding Israel.
• Historical Record: The name serves as a marker in the historical account of the descendants of Esau, whose people lived in the land of Edom. This specific detail contributes to the comprehensive narrative of the peoples mentioned in the Old Testament.

Summary

In summary, H3292 Yaʻăqân is a proper name appearing once in scripture. Its role is not doctrinal but historical, serving as a data point in the meticulously recorded genealogies of the Old Testament. The name's sole function is to identify an Idumaean individual, contributing to the broader biblical project of documenting the lineages and histories of the nations, including those related to but distinct from Israel.