### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mibsâm**, represented by `{{H4017}}`, is a proper name meaning **fragrant**. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is used to identify two different individuals in biblical genealogies: one a son of an Ishmaelite and the other an Israelite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H4017}}` functions as a genealogical marker. It first appears in the list of the twelve sons of Ishmael, where **Mibsam** is named alongside his brothers Nebajoth, Kedar, and Adbeel [[Genesis 25:13]]. This exact lineage is repeated in 1 Chronicles, again listing **Mibsam** as a son of Ishmael according to their generations [[1 Chronicles 1:29]]. A different **Mibsam** is later mentioned in the genealogy of the tribe of Simeon as the son of Shallum [[1 Chronicles 4:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help establish the context in which Mibsam is mentioned:
* `{{H3458}}` **Yishmâʻêʼl** (God will hear; Jishmael): Mibsam is identified twice as one of the sons of Ishmael, whose descendants formed a prominent group [[Genesis 25:13]].
* `{{H7967}}` **Shallûwm** (Shallum, the name of fourteen Israelites): In a separate lineage, Mibsam is identified as the son of Shallum, placing him within an Israelite family line [[1 Chronicles 4:25]].
* `{{H8435}}` **tôwlᵉdâh** (descent, i.e. family; (figuratively) history; birth, generations): Both mentions of Mibsam the Ishmaelite occur in passages explicitly defined as genealogical records, introduced as "These are their generations" ([[Genesis 25:13]], [[1 Chronicles 1:29]]).
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word is essential for defining Mibsam's identity, as he is consistently referred to as the son of either Ishmael or Shallum [[1 Chronicles 4:25]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H4017}}` lies entirely within its genealogical function, contributing to the biblical record in several ways:
* **Historical Record:** The name Mibsam serves as a data point in the preservation of family lines. Its inclusion in the "generations" `{{H8435}}` of Ishmael is part of a deliberate effort to record the descent of nations [[Genesis 25:13]].
* **Distinct Lineages:** The use of the name for both an Ishmaelite and an Israelite highlights its presence across different family groups descended from Abraham. He is listed as a son `{{H1121}}` of Ishmael `{{H3458}}` and also as a son `{{H1121}}` of Shallum `{{H7967}}`.
* **Preservation of Identity:** The meticulous listing of names `{{H8034}}`, including Mibsam, underscores the importance of individual and tribal identity within the biblical narrative. The text is careful to list the sons of Ishmael "by their names" [[Genesis 25:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4017}}` **Mibsâm** is not associated with any specific narrative actions but is crucial for its role in biblical genealogies. As a name meaning "fragrant," it marks individuals in the recorded lineages of both Ishmael and the tribe of Simeon. Its presence demonstrates the scriptural importance placed on documenting family history and preserving the "generations" that form the peoples of the biblical world.
TRV