### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yoqshân**, represented by `{{H3370}}`, identifies an Arabian patriarch. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in scripture. The name's base definition is "insidious," but its biblical usage is exclusively to identify **Jokshan** as a specific individual within the lineage of Abraham.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3370}}` is used to establish a specific branch of Abraham's descendants. Jokshan is first introduced as one of the six sons born to Abraham through his concubine Keturah ([[Genesis 25:2]], [[1 Chronicles 1:32]]). The record then details his own role as a progenitor, stating that Jokshan **begat** Sheba and Dedan [[Genesis 25:3]]. This genealogical information is restated in 1 Chronicles, solidifying his position as the father of these two descendants [[1 Chronicles 1:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify Jokshan's position within the patriarchal family structure:
* `{{H85}}` **ʼAbrâhâm** (Abraham): As the "father of a multitude," Abraham is the patriarch from whom Jokshan descends. He is identified as Jokshan's father in the genealogical lists [[1 Chronicles 1:32]].
* `{{H6989}}` **Qᵉṭûwrâh** (Keturah): Defined as "perfumed; Keturah, a wife of Abraham," she is the mother of Jokshan. Scripture identifies her as Abraham's **concubine** `{{H6370}}` and states that she **bare** `{{H3205}}` Jokshan [[1 Chronicles 1:32]].
* `{{H7614}}` **Shᵉbâʼ** (Sheba): One of the two sons whom Jokshan **begat** `{{H3205}}`, establishing a key lineage that originated from him [[Genesis 25:3]].
* `{{H1719}}` **Dᵉdân** (Dedan): Jokshan's other son, whose own **sons** `{{H1121}}` are listed as Asshurim, Letushim, and Leummim, further extending the genealogical record [[Genesis 25:3]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H3370}}` is primarily genealogical, highlighting the expansion of Abraham's family.
* **Patriarchal Lineage:** Jokshan serves as a vital link in the record of Abraham's descendants, specifically through his union with Keturah [[1 Chronicles 1:32]].
* **Progenitor of Tribes:** By fathering Sheba and Dedan, Jokshan is established as the ancestor of significant Arabian tribes, connecting them directly to the Abrahamic line [[Genesis 25:3]].
* **Fulfillment of Promise:** His existence contributes to the record of Abraham becoming the "father of a multitude," demonstrating how his lineage extended beyond his primary heir, Isaac.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3370}}` is not a figure of lengthy narrative, but a person of crucial genealogical importance. The name **Yoqshân** exists in scripture to define a specific line of descent from Abraham. His inclusion in both Genesis and Chronicles underscores the biblical commitment to tracing the origins of nations and peoples, anchoring them to the foundational patriarchs of Israel's history.
TRV