The Hebrew name Lᵉṭûwshim, represented by H3912, identifies an Arabian tribe. Its literal meaning is "hammered (i.e. oppressed) ones," derived from the passive participle of its root. This name is highly specific, appearing only 1 time in a single verse in the entire Bible.
The sole appearance of H3912 is within a genealogical record in the book of Genesis. The verse establishes the lineage of Abraham's descendants through his son Jokshan. It is used to identify one of the three tribes that descended from Dedan, stating, "And the sons of Dedan were Asshurim, and Letushim, and Leummim" Genesis 25:3. This context firmly places the tribe within the lineage of Jokshan and Dedan.
The genealogical context of H3912 connects it to several other key individuals and tribes:
- H1719 Dᵉdân (Dedan): The immediate father of the Letushim tribe. Dedan is presented as a progenitor of several peoples, and his name is also associated with a specific territory Genesis 25:3.
- H3370 Yoqshân (Jokshan): The grandfather of Letushim and an "Arabian patriarch." He is the one who begat both Sheba and Dedan Genesis 25:3.
- H805 ʼĂshûwrîy (Asshurim): Listed as a brother tribe to Letushim, as they are both named as sons of Dedan Genesis 25:3.
- H3817 Lᵉʼummîym (Leummim): The third brother tribe descended from Dedan, listed alongside Asshurim and Letushim. The name itself means "communities" Genesis 25:3.
The theological significance of H3912 is tied to its role in the biblical record of ancestry and fulfillment of divine promise.
- Inclusion in Abraham's Lineage: By being a descendant of Jokshan, Letushim is part of the extended family of Abraham through his concubine Keturah 1 Chronicles 1:32. This highlights the Bible's detailed accounting of the peoples who descended from the patriarchs.
- Tribal Identity: The name's definition, "hammered (i.e. oppressed) ones," offers a unique descriptor that may allude to the tribe's history or character, although no further explanation is provided in scripture.
- Genealogical Precision: Its inclusion underscores the importance of genealogies in the Old Testament for mapping the relationships between tribes and nations, providing a framework for understanding the historical and ethnic landscape of the ancient world.
In summary, H3912 is a specific tribal name, Lᵉṭûwshim, found exclusively in a genealogical list in Genesis. While its appearance is brief, it plays a role in documenting the descendants of Abraham through Jokshan and Dedan. The name's meaning of "hammered (i.e. oppressed) ones" provides a distinct identity, and its position in the lineage helps complete the biblical record of the origins of various Arabian tribes.
TRV