### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼĂbîymâʼêl**, represented by `{{H39}}`, is defined as "father of Mael (apparently some Arab tribe)". It is also identified as a son of Joktan. This term appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H39}}` is primarily found within genealogical lists, establishing lineage. It is listed as one of the sons of Joktan. For instance, in a listing of descendants, `{{H39}}` is mentioned alongside `{{H5745}}` Obal and `{{H7614}}` Sheba [[Genesis 10:28]]. Similarly, in a parallel account, it appears with `{{H5858}}` Ebal and `{{H7614}}` Sheba [[1 Chronicles 1:22]]. These occurrences place `{{H39}}` as a key figure in the enumeration of early progenitors.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in direct context with `{{H39}}` or have definitions that connect to its lineage:
* `{{H5745}}` **ʻÔwbâl** (Obal): This term, of foreign derivation, is identified as a son of Joktan. It appears directly alongside `{{H39}}` in the genealogical record [[Genesis 10:28]].
* `{{H5858}}` **ʻÊybâl** (Ebal): Possibly meaning "bare," this term refers to a mountain. In the genealogical lists, a figure named `{{H5858}}` Ebal is mentioned alongside `{{H39}}` [[1 Chronicles 1:22]]. This name also appears in geographical contexts like mount Ebal [[Deuteronomy 11:29]].
* `{{H7614}}` **Shᵉbâʼ** (Sheba): Of foreign origin, this term names three early progenitors of tribes and an Ethiopian district. It is listed directly with `{{H39}}` in both occurrences ([[Genesis 10:28]], [[1 Chronicles 1:22]]), and is known for its association with gold and incense [[Psalms 72:15]] and the Queen of Sheba [[1 Kings 10:1]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H39}}` lies within its role in biblical genealogy and the establishment of tribal origins.
* **Genealogical Record:** As a name appearing in the foundational lists of the descendants of Noah, `{{H39}}` contributes to the documented history of early humanity and the origins of various peoples [[Genesis 10:28]].
* **Progenitor of Tribes:** The definition of `{{H39}}` as the "father of Mael (apparently some Arab tribe)" highlights its role as a foundational ancestor for a specific group, emphasizing the tribal structures evident in early biblical history.
* **Historical Continuity:** Its inclusion in both Genesis and 1 Chronicles underscores the careful preservation of lineage and the historical continuity of peoples mentioned in scripture [[1 Chronicles 1:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H39}}` is a proper noun denoting **ʼĂbîymâʼêl**, a son of Joktan and a progenitor of an Arab tribe. Its limited yet consistent appearances in key biblical genealogies firmly establish its place within the historical and tribal records of scripture, highlighting the importance of lineage and the origins of peoples in the biblical narrative.
TRV