יִשְׁמָא

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word Yishmâʼ, represented by H3457, is the name of an Israelite. Its base definition is desolate. The name appears only 1 time in the Bible, in a single verse, marking it as a unique entry within the scriptural genealogies.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of Yishmâʼ H3457 is in a genealogical listing in 1 Chronicles 4:3. In this verse, he is identified as a descendant of "the father of Etam." The text names him alongside his brothers, Jezreel and Idbash, and his sister, Hazelelponi, establishing his specific position within this family line.

Related Words & Concepts

The context of Ishma's mention includes several other key names and terms that define his familial relationships:

• H1 ʼâb (father): This word establishes the lineage, identifying the patriarch of the family as "the father of Etam" 1 Chronicles 4:3.
• H5862 ʻÊyṭâm (Etam): This is the place associated with Ishma's father, further specifying the family's origin 1 Chronicles 4:3.
• H3157 Yizrᵉʻêʼl (Jezreel): The name of one of Ishma's brothers listed in the genealogy 1 Chronicles 4:3.
• H3031 Yidbâsh (Idbash): The name of Ishma's other brother, mentioned alongside him 1 Chronicles 4:3.
• H269 ʼâchôwth (sister): This term is used to introduce the female sibling in the family group 1 Chronicles 4:3.
• H6753 Tsᵉlelpôwnîy (Hazelelponi): This is the proper name of Ishma's sister 1 Chronicles 4:3.
• H8034 shêm (name): This word is used to introduce the sister's name, signifying a "mark or memorial of individuality" 1 Chronicles 4:3.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of H3457 is found entirely within its genealogical context.

• Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of Ishma in the biblical record demonstrates the importance of tracking ancestry and preserving the identity of individuals within the family lines of Israel.
• A Memorial of Individuality: The mention of Yishmâʼ alongside his siblings gives each a "name" H8034, which serves as a memorial, ensuring they are not forgotten in the scriptural account.
• Family Structure: The verse provides a snapshot of a complete family unit—a father, sons, and a sister—reinforcing the biblical emphasis on familial bonds and heritage.

Summary

In summary, H3457 Yishmâʼ is a name that appears once in scripture, functioning exclusively as a genealogical marker. While the name itself means "desolate," its use in 1 Chronicles 4:3 serves the opposite purpose: to populate and give definition to the lineage of the descendants of Etam. Its significance lies in its contribution to the detailed and carefully preserved family records of the Bible.