The Hebrew name Mizzâh, represented by H4199, identifies an Edomite individual. Its base definition is possibly derived from a root meaning "to faint with fear; terror." The name appears 3 times across 3 unique verses, exclusively within genealogical records.
In the biblical narrative, H4199 is used solely to identify a person in the lineage of Esau. Mizzah is consistently listed as one of the sons of Reuel (Genesis 36:13, 1 Chronicles 1:37). The record in Genesis further clarifies his status, naming him as "duke Mizzah" and specifying that he was one of the "dukes that came of Reuel in the land of Edom" Genesis 36:17. These accounts also identify him as a descendant of Bashemath, Esau's wife (Genesis 36:13, Genesis 36:17).
Several related words and names establish Mizzah's place within the patriarchal lists:
- H7467 Rᵉʻûwʼêl (friend of God; Reuel): As Mizzah's father, Reuel connects him directly as a son of Esau Genesis 36:10.
- H5184 Nachath (quiet): One of Mizzah's brothers, Nahath is listed alongside him and also identified as an Edomite duke Genesis 36:17.
- H2226 Zerach (Zerach, the name of three Israelites, also of an Idumaean and an Ethiopian prince): Another of Mizzah's brothers, Zerah is also named as a duke descended from Reuel Genesis 36:17.
- H1121 bên (a son): This foundational term for lineage is used in all three occurrences to define Mizzah's relationship as a son of Reuel Genesis 36:13.
The genealogical significance of H4199 is centered on its role in documenting the structure of the Edomite nation.
- Edomite Leadership: Mizzah is explicitly identified as a "duke" Genesis 36:17. This title signifies his role as a chieftain or the head of a clan within Edom.
- Lineage of Esau: His inclusion in the genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles is a key part of the record of Esau's descendants, tracing the line through his son Reuel Genesis 36:17.
- Matrilineal Identification: The accounts specify that Mizzah and his brothers are the sons of Bashemath, Esau's wife (Genesis 36:13, Genesis 36:17), anchoring this line of Edomite dukes to a specific matriarch.
In summary, H4199 is the proper name of an Edomite duke. Its importance in scripture is not derived from its etymological meaning of "terror" but from its function within the biblical genealogies. The name Mizzah serves to document a specific leader in the lineage of Esau, contributing to the detailed record of the early clans and chieftains that constituted the nation of Edom.
TRV