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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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