from יָשַׁם; desolate; Jishma, an Israelite; Ishma.
Transliteration:Yishmâʼ
Pronunciation:yish-maw'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma `{{H3457}}`, *Yishmâʼ* (יִשְׁמָא), is a proper noun, specifically a personal name. Its base definition indicates its derivation from the root `{{H3456}}` (*yasham*), which signifies "to be desolate," "to be laid waste," "to be astonished," or "to be appalled." Consequently, the name *Yishmâʼ* carries the inherent meaning of "desolate" or "astonishment." As a proper name, its semantic range is fixed, identifying a specific individual within a genealogical context. However, the etymological link to "desolation" provides a layer of potential, though unelaborated, significance regarding the circumstances or hopes associated with the individual's birth or the period in which they lived.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name *Yishmâʼ* (Ishma in English translations) appears only once in the biblical text, specifically in the Old Testament:
* [[1 Chronicles 4:3]]: "And these were the sons of the father of Etam: Jezreel, and Ishma, and Idbash; and the name of their sister was Hazelelponi."
This verse is situated within the extensive genealogies of the tribe of Judah, tracing the descendants of Judah through various lines. Ishma is listed as one of three sons of an unnamed "father of Etam," alongside Jezreel and Idbash. The context is purely genealogical, serving to record the lineage of Israel. The text provides no further narrative details, actions, or personal characteristics of Ishma, leaving his life and role unelaborated beyond his familial connection. Thus, the primary insight into this individual comes solely from the meaning of his name.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct and significant related word to `{{H3457}}` is its root, `{{H3456}}` (*yasham*), which means "to be desolate" or "to be laid waste." This root is frequently used throughout the Hebrew Bible to describe the desolation of land, cities, or people as a consequence of divine judgment, war, or abandonment (e.g., [[Leviticus 26:34]], [[Isaiah 6:11]], [[Jeremiah 4:27]]). The concept of "desolation" is a significant theological theme, often linked to covenant breaking, sin, and the consequences thereof, but also sometimes preceding a period of divine restoration. While Ishma's name carries this somber connotation, there is no textual evidence to suggest that his personal life or circumstances were characterized by desolation. The name stands in contrast to many Hebrew names that signify blessing, prosperity, or divine favor, highlighting the diverse range of naming conventions and potential life circumstances reflected in biblical genealogies.
### Theological Significance
As a singular entry in a genealogical list, the direct theological significance of Ishma himself is minimal. His inclusion affirms the meticulous and divinely preserved record-keeping of Israel's tribal heritage, particularly that of Judah, the tribe from which the Messiah would eventually come. The more profound theological significance, if any, lies in the *meaning* of his name: "desolate."
* This name serves as a subtle reminder that even within the chosen lineage, names could reflect challenging realities, perhaps hinting at periods of national hardship, personal sorrow, or even a prophetic anticipation of future desolation.
* It implicitly connects to the broader biblical theme of desolation as a consequence of human sin and divine judgment, a state from which God ultimately brings restoration (e.g., the return from exile to a desolate land). However, it is crucial to note that the text itself does not draw this connection explicitly for Ishma.
* Ultimately, the name *Yishmâʼ* underscores the comprehensive nature of God's work, which encompasses all aspects of human experience, even those marked by hardship or sorrow. It highlights that God's plan unfolds through individuals whose names bear various connotations, demonstrating His sovereignty over all circumstances.
### Summary
`{{H3457}}`, *Yishmâʼ*, is a personal name meaning "desolate" or "astonishment," derived from the root `{{H3456}}` ("to be desolate"). It appears only once in the Bible, in [[1 Chronicles 4:3]], identifying one of the sons of the "father of Etam" within the genealogies of Judah. The biblical text provides no further narrative details about Ishma. His primary significance lies in the evocative meaning of his name, which connects to the broader Old Testament theme of desolation—a concept often associated with divine judgment and subsequent restoration. While the name itself carries a somber connotation, there is no direct biblical evidence to link Ishma's life or role to the concept of desolation. His inclusion serves to document the intricate and divinely preserved lineage of Israel, particularly the tribe from which the Davidic line and ultimately the Messiah would emerge.
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