### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The name **Yarchâʻ**, represented by `{{H3398}}`, is a proper name that appears in the Bible, identifying an individual named **Jarha**. The name is noted to be of probable Egyptian origin. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, both within the same genealogical account.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical narrative introduces **Jarha** `{{H3398}}` within the lineage of Sheshan `{{H8348}}`, an Israelite who had daughters `{{H1323}}` but no sons `{{H1121}}`. To continue his family line, the record states that Sheshan had a servant `{{H5650}}` who was an Egyptian `{{H4713}}` whose name `{{H8034}}` was **Jarha** [[1 Chronicles 2:34]]. Sheshan then gave `{{H5414}}` his daughter `{{H1323}}` to **Jarha** to be his wife `{{H802}}`. This union resulted in the birth `{{H3205}}` of a son named Attai `{{H6262}}`, who carried on the lineage [[1 Chronicles 2:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The story of **Jarha** is closely connected to several key figures and statuses within the genealogy:
* `{{H8348}}` **Shêshân**: Defined as "Sheshan, an Israelite," he was the master of Jarha who orchestrated the marriage to preserve his family line [[1 Chronicles 2:34]].
* `{{H5650}}` **ʻebed** (servant): This term describes Jarha's initial position within Sheshan's household before he was given his master's daughter in marriage [[1 Chronicles 2:34]].
* `{{H4713}}` **Mitsrîy** (Egyptian): This word specifies Jarha's non-Israelite origin, highlighting his identity as a foreigner who becomes part of Judah's genealogy [[1 Chronicles 2:34]].
* `{{H1323}}` **bath** (daughter): This refers to the unnamed daughter of Sheshan who was given `{{H5414}}` to Jarha as a wife `{{H802}}`, making the continuation of the family line possible [[1 Chronicles 2:35]].
* `{{H6262}}` **ʻAttay**: As the son born `{{H3205}}` to Jarha and Sheshan's daughter, Attai is the heir who continues the lineage [[1 Chronicles 2:35]].
### Theological Significance
Though brief, the account of **Jarha** carries significant narrative weight, particularly in the context of Old Testament genealogy.
* **Continuation of Lineage:** The story provides a unique solution to a common problem in patriarchal societies: the lack of a male heir. Sheshan `{{H8348}}`, having no sons `{{H1121}}`, ensures his line continues by integrating his servant into his family [[1 Chronicles 2:34-35]].
* **Inclusion of a Foreigner:** **Jarha** is explicitly identified as an Egyptian `{{H4713}}`. His marriage into an Israelite family and his son's inclusion in the official genealogy of Judah is a notable instance of a foreigner being fully assimilated into the covenant community.
* **Transition in Status:** The narrative marks a significant change in **Jarha's** social standing, elevating him from a servant `{{H5650}}` to a son-in-law and the progenitor of the next generation in a prominent Israelite family line [[1 Chronicles 2:35]].
### Summary
In summary, **Jarha** `{{H3398}}` is a specific individual whose story, contained in just two verses, serves a crucial function in the biblical genealogies. As an Egyptian servant who marries into an Israelite family, his account is a powerful illustration of themes such as the preservation of lineage, social mobility, and the inclusion of non-Israelites into the family of Judah. His name marks a pivotal point in the family history of Sheshan.
TRV