The Hebrew word Yithrân, represented by H3506, is a proper name meaning excellent. It is derived from the word יָתַר. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. The name is used to identify two distinct individuals in the Old Testament: one an Edomite and the other an Israelite.
In the biblical narrative, H3506 is found exclusively within genealogical lists. It first appears in the lineage of the Edomites, where Ithran is named as one of the children of Dishon Genesis 36:26. This same familial connection is restated in 1 Chronicles, listing him alongside his brothers Eshban and Cheran as a son of Dishon 1 Chronicles 1:41. The name also appears in a separate genealogy for the Israelite tribe of Asher, identifying a different man named Ithran 1 Chronicles 7:37.
Several related words help establish the context for Ithran in the genealogical records:
- H1121 bên (a son): This term is crucial for defining Ithran's place in his lineage, explicitly identifying him as one of the "children" or "sons" of Dishon in both Genesis and Chronicles Genesis 36:26.
- H1787 Dîyshôwn (Dishon, the name of two Edomites): This is the name of Ithran's father in the Edomite lineage. Dishon is identified as a descendant of Seir the Horite (1 Chronicles 1:38, 1 Chronicles 1:41).
- H790 ʼEshbân (vigorous; Eshban, an Idumaean): Listed as a brother of Ithran, appearing beside him in the list of Dishon's sons Genesis 36:26.
- H3763 Kᵉrân (Cheran, an aboriginal Idumaean): Also named as a brother to Ithran in the same lists, further defining the Edomite family group 1 Chronicles 1:41.
The significance of H3506 is rooted in its function within the biblical historical record rather than in direct theological teaching.
- Genealogical Record: The name's inclusion underscores the importance of preserving lineage. It serves as a marker in the ancestral lines of both the Edomites and the Israelites.
- Edomite Lineage: As a son of Dishon, Ithran is part of the recorded history of the Horite dukes who inhabited the land of Seir before it became Edom Genesis 36:21.
- Israelite Lineage: The appearance of an Ithran in the tribe of Asher demonstrates the meticulous record-keeping applied to the tribes of Israel as well 1 Chronicles 7:37.
In summary, H3506 is a proper name, Ithran, used to identify specific individuals in Old Testament genealogies. While its root suggests excellence, its primary role in scripture is historical. By appearing in the lineages of both an Edomite family Genesis 36:26 and an Israelite one 1 Chronicles 7:37, the name Ithran plays a small but precise part in constructing the detailed ancestral maps that are foundational to the biblical narrative.
TRV