from the active participle of יָשַׁב and שֶׁבֶת, with a preposition and the article interposed; sitting in the seat; Joshebbash-Shebeth, an Israelite; that sat in the seat.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew phrase **Yôshêb bash-Shebeth**, represented by `{{H3429}}`, literally means **sitting in the seat**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. This unique term is derived from the active participle of `yâshab` (to sit) and `shebeth` (seat), and it functions as a specific title for an Israelite warrior.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H3429}}` is in a list of King David's most honored warriors. It is used to identify a man known as "The Tachmonite **that sat in the seat**," who was "chief among the captains" [[2 Samuel 23:8]]. The title seems to denote his preeminent rank and position of authority among David's elite fighting men. This same individual is credited with an extraordinary feat of valor in the same verse.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of this title by providing context for authority and position:
* `{{H3427}}` **yâshab**: This primitive root means **to sit down**, remain, or dwell. It is the verbal foundation of `{{H3429}}` and is used in contexts of both physical posture and established position, such as the LORD's invitation to "Sit thou at my right hand" [[Psalms 110:1]].
* `{{H7675}}` **shebeth**: This word means a **seat**, place, or abode. It forms the second part of the compound term `{{H3429}}` and signifies a specific location or session. It can be used to describe a place of honor, but also a "seat of violence" [[Amos 6:3]].
* `{{H7218}}` **rôʼsh**: Meaning **the head**, this word is used figuratively for a chief, ruler, or the beginning of something. In the context of `{{H3429}}`, it defines the warrior's rank as the "chief" of the captains [[2 Samuel 23:8]], reinforcing the idea of supreme authority.
### Theological Significance
While appearing only once, the theological weight of `{{H3429}}` is tied to its function as a title of God-given authority within a divinely anointed kingdom.
* **A Title of Rank:** The phrase is not merely descriptive but serves as a formal title. It is used to identify the "chief{H7218} among the captains{H7991}" [[2 Samuel 23:8]], signifying an established position of leadership and honor.
* **Seat of Authority:** The concept of a "seat" `{{H7675}}` is tied to one's designated role. For this mighty man, "sitting in the seat" `{{H3429}}` represents his specific, high-ranking place within David's military order.
* **Designation of Identity:** In a list of "names{H8034}" of mighty men, this title serves as a unique identifier [[2 Samuel 23:8]]. It links a person's identity directly to their role and status.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3429}}` is a highly specific title used once in scripture to denote the highest-ranking warrior among David's mighty men. As a compound phrase meaning "sitting in the seat," it encapsulates the concepts of established authority, preeminent rank, and personal identity tied to an honored position. Its significance comes from its unique application to a specific individual who held a chief place of honor.
TRV