### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Yishbach**, represented by `{{H3431}}`, is the proper name of an Israelite, **Ishbah**. Its meaning is "he will praise." This name appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, located in a single verse that details genealogical records. Its purpose is to identify a specific individual within the lineage of Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of **Ishbah** `{{H3431}}` is in the context of the genealogies recorded in 1 Chronicles. He is listed as one of the individuals born in the line of Ezra, alongside Miriam and Shammai. The verse explicitly states that **Ishbah** is "the **father** of Eshtemoa" [[1 Chronicles 4:17]], establishing his role as a progenitor and a link between generations in the tribe of Judah.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text clarify Ishbah's place in the genealogy:
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son (as a builder of the family name)): Ishbah is listed among the **sons** of Ezra, defining his position within that family unit [[1 Chronicles 4:17]].
* `{{H5834}}` **ʻEzrâh** (Ezrah, an Israelite): This is the name of the patriarch from whom Ishbah descends, anchoring his lineage [[1 Chronicles 4:17]].
* `{{H2029}}` **hârâh** (to be (or become) pregnant, conceive): This verb is used to state that his mother **bare** him, signifying his birth and entry into the genealogical record [[1 Chronicles 4:17]].
* `{{H1}}` **ʼâb** (father): This term is directly applied to Ishbah to define his relationship to the next generation, identifying him as the **father** of Eshtemoa [[1 Chronicles 4:17]].
* `{{H851}}` **ʼEshtᵉmôaʻ** (Eshtemoa or Eshtemoh, a place in Palestine): This is the name of Ishbah's descendant, for whom he is recorded as being the father, thereby continuing the family line [[1 Chronicles 4:17]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H3431}}` is entirely genealogical, providing a crucial link in the biblical record.
* **Genealogical Marker:** The name serves as a specific point in the lineage of Judah, connecting the line of **Ezra** `{{H5834}}` to subsequent generations.
* **Paternal Identity:** Ishbah's primary identification is his fatherhood. He is remembered as "the **father** of **Eshtemoa**" [[1 Chronicles 4:17]], highlighting the importance of generational continuity in the biblical narrative.
* **A Name of Praise:** While the text does not elaborate, the name **Yishbach** itself means "he will praise," embedding a statement of worship or hope into the very identity of this individual within Israel's history.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3431}}` is a proper name with a single, precise function in scripture. As **Ishbah**, he is a key figure in the genealogical list of 1 Chronicles, ensuring the recorded lineage of Judah remains unbroken. His mention, though brief, is essential for connecting the patriarch Ezra to the descendant Eshtemoa, demonstrating the meticulous preservation of ancestral identity in the Old Testament.
TRV