The Hebrew name Yishpâh, represented by H3472, is the name of an Israelite, Ispah. It appears 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name is perhaps derived from a root meaning "he will scratch". Its sole mention is within a genealogical listing.
The single appearance of H3472 is found within a genealogical record in the book of 1 Chronicles. In this passage, Ispah is named as one of the sons of Beriah, alongside his brothers Michael and Joha 1 Chronicles 8:16. This context serves to place Ispah within a specific family line documented in the scriptures.
Ispah is mentioned in direct relation to several other individuals, whose names help establish his familial context:
- H1283 Bᵉrîyʻâh (in trouble; Beriah): This is the name of Ispah's father 1 Chronicles 8:16. In other passages, a figure named Beriah is listed as a son of Asher Genesis 46:17 and another as a head of the fathers of the inhabitants of Aijalon 1 Chronicles 8:13.
- H4317 Mîykâʼêl (who (is) like God?; Michael): Named as a brother of Ispah 1 Chronicles 8:16. This name also belongs to other Israelites and an archangel described as a great prince Daniel 12:1.
- H3109 Yôwchâʼ (Jehovah-revived; Jocha): Listed as another of Ispah's brothers 1 Chronicles 8:16. A man by this name is also listed as the brother of Jediael the Tizite 1 Chronicles 11:45.
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes the filial relationship of Ispah, Michael, and Joha to their father, Beriah 1 Chronicles 8:16. It is a foundational term for documenting lineage, as seen in the command to teach God's laws to "thy sons, and thy sons' sons" Deuteronomy 4:9.
The significance of H3472 is primarily genealogical, highlighting the meticulous preservation of lineage in the Old Testament.
- Preservation of Lineage: The inclusion of Ispah, however brief, underscores the biblical emphasis on documenting family lines. His identity is secured by his connection to a father, Beriah, and brothers 1 Chronicles 8:16.
- Context of Significant Names: Ispah is listed with brothers whose names carry rich meanings, such as Michael, "who (is) like God?" H4317, and Joha, "Jehovah-revived" H3109. This practice of choosing names reflects a culture focused on God's character and actions.
- A Link in the Chain: Though Ispah himself has no recorded actions, his place in the genealogy of 1 Chronicles contributes to the broader scriptural project of establishing the lines of descent that form the biblical narrative.
In summary, H3472 represents a person, Ispah, mentioned a single time in a biblical genealogy. Its importance is not found in a wider narrative but in its specific function as a marker of lineage, connecting Ispah to his father and brothers 1 Chronicles 8:16. The name's appearance alongside others like Michael H4317 and Joha H3109 anchors him within a specific family, demonstrating the detailed nature of biblical records in establishing clear lines of descent.
TRV