probably from the same as שָׁפָן; he will hide; Jishpan, an Israelite; Ishpan.
Transliteration:Yishpân
Pronunciation:yish-pawn'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew lemma יִשְׁפָּן (Yishpân), Strong's number `{{H3473}}`, is a proper noun, serving as a personal name. Its base definition indicates a probable derivation from the same root as שָׁפָן (shaphan, `{{H8227}}`), which refers to the hyrax or rock badger. The etymological meaning attributed to Yishpân is "he will hide." This suggests a connection to the natural behavior of the hyrax, an animal known for seeking refuge and concealment in rocky crevices. As a proper name, its semantic range is limited to its function as an identifier for an individual within a genealogical record. The underlying meaning "he will hide" would have been the original significance or a descriptive quality associated with the name's bearer or origin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name Yishpân (יִשְׁפָּן, `{{H3473}}`) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible:
* [[1 Chronicles 8:22]]: "And Ishpan, and Heber, and Eliel,"
In this sole occurrence, Yishpân is listed as one of the sons of Beriah, a prominent Benjamite. The context is a detailed genealogy of the tribe of Benjamin in 1 Chronicles chapter 8, which meticulously records the heads of families, their descendants, and their places of habitation. This chapter emphasizes the importance of lineage and tribal identity within Israel, particularly after the exile, when the preservation of family records was crucial for re-establishing communal and religious life. Yishpân's inclusion in this list underscores the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, which served to affirm tribal heritage and the continuity of God's covenant people. The name itself does not carry any specific narrative or theological weight beyond its function as a personal identifier within this historical record.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is שָׁפָן (shaphan, `{{H8227}}`), from which Yishpân is likely derived. This term refers to the hyrax or rock badger, an animal described in Scripture as "feeble folk, yet they make their houses in the rocks" ([[Proverbs 30:26]]). This connection reinforces the concept of "hiding" or "seeking refuge," as hyraxes are known for their ability to conceal themselves in rocky environments.
Beyond this direct etymological link, the concept of "hiding" or "concealment" is a pervasive theme in biblical thought:
* **Divine Presence and Absence:** God is sometimes depicted as "hiding His face" ([[Psalm 13:1]]), signifying a period of divine judgment or withdrawal, or conversely, as a "hiding place" for His people ([[Psalm 32:7]], [[Psalm 119:114]]).
* **Human Response to God:** Humanity often attempts to hide from God due to sin ([[Genesis 3:8]]), or conversely, seeks refuge and safety *in* God ([[Psalm 27:5]]).
* **Protection and Refuge:** The idea of a "hiding place" is often associated with divine protection and security from enemies or adversity ([[Isaiah 32:2]]).
The context of Yishpân as a proper name within a genealogy relates to the broader biblical concepts of:
* **Lineage and Genealogy:** The meticulous preservation of family lines, crucial for identity, inheritance, and the fulfillment of covenant promises (e.g., the lineage of David leading to the Messiah).
* **Tribal Identity:** The distinct roles and histories of the twelve tribes of Israel, as seen in the extensive genealogical records in books like Chronicles.
### Theological Significance
While Yishpân is primarily a proper noun in a genealogical list, its etymological meaning "he will hide" can subtly evoke broader theological themes.
Firstly, the very existence of such detailed genealogies, including seemingly minor figures like Yishpân, speaks to God's meticulous providence and His sovereign ordering of human history. Every individual, no matter how briefly mentioned, plays a part in the grand tapestry of God's redemptive plan. The preservation of these records underscores the divine faithfulness in maintaining the covenant people and their distinct tribal identities.
Secondly, the implied meaning "he will hide" can prompt reflection on the multifaceted concept of "hiding" in Scripture. While the name likely describes the individual or their circumstances, it can resonate with the theological truth of God as the ultimate hiding place and refuge for His people. In a world fraught with danger and uncertainty, the believer finds ultimate security and solace in the divine presence ([[Psalm 91:1-2]]). Conversely, it can also serve as a subtle reminder of humanity's fallen state, where sin often leads to an attempt to hide from God's righteous gaze, only to be met with His persistent pursuit and offer of reconciliation.
### Summary
Yishpân (יִשְׁפָּן, `{{H3473}}`) is a Hebrew proper noun, appearing once in the biblical record as a Benjamite in [[1 Chronicles 8:22]]. Its probable etymological root in שָׁפָן (shaphan, `{{H8227}}`), meaning "hyrax," suggests the nominal meaning "he will hide." As a name in a detailed genealogy, Yishpân highlights the biblical emphasis on lineage, tribal identity, and the meticulous preservation of Israel's history, which was crucial for understanding God's covenantal faithfulness. While primarily an identifier, its underlying meaning subtly connects to broader theological concepts such as divine providence in human naming, the theme of God as a refuge for His people, and humanity's complex relationship with concealment and revelation in the divine presence.
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