The Hebrew word 'Ebyâçâph, represented by H43, is a personal name contracted from אֲבִיאָסָף. It refers to Ebiasaph, an Israelite. This name appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible.
In the biblical narrative, H43 is consistently presented within genealogies, establishing his place within prominent Israelite lineages. He is identified as a son in several successions, such as "Elkanah his son, and Ebiasaph his son, and Assir his son" 1 Chronicles 6:23, and "The son of Tahath, the son of Assir, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah" 1 Chronicles 6:37. Most notably, H43 is directly linked to the Korahite family, whose members held specific roles in the service of the tabernacle. It is recorded that "Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers, being over the host of the LORD, were keepers of the entry" 1 Chronicles 9:19.
Several related words illuminate the familial and functional context of H43:
- H1121 ben (son): This term is fundamental to establishing the lineage of Ebiasaph, as seen in the phrase "Elkanah his son, and Ebiasaph his son" 1 Chronicles 6:23. It denotes direct generational continuity and inheritance within the family structure.
- H7141 Qôrach (Korah): As Ebiasaph is identified as "the son of Korah" 1 Chronicles 6:37, this term points to a significant ancestor from whom his family line descends, shaping their collective identity and roles.
- H7145 Qorchîy (Korahite): This patronymic term identifies the collective group or descendants of Korah. The Korahites, including Ebiasaph's lineage, were specifically involved in the "work of the service" and as "keepers of the gates of the tabernacle" 1 Chronicles 9:19.
The theological significance associated with H43 primarily stems from his connection to the Korahite lineage and their dedicated service within the religious structure of Israel.
- Hereditary Priesthood and Service: Ebiasaph's consistent mention in genealogical records highlights the importance of inherited roles within the Levites, specifically the Korahite branch, for the work and service of the LORD.
- Guardians of Sacred Spaces: The Korahites, including Ebiasaph's descendants, were appointed as "keepers of the gates of the tabernacle" 1 Chronicles 9:19, underscoring the sacred responsibility of guarding the entry to God's dwelling place.
- Lineage and Covenant Identity: The careful recording of Ebiasaph's descent reinforces the biblical emphasis on family lines as markers of identity and participation in the broader covenant community of Israel and their designated duties to the LORD H3068.
In summary, H43 'Ebyâçâph is a personal name deeply embedded in the genealogical records of the Levites, particularly the Korahite family. His appearances underscore the importance of lineage in defining roles and responsibilities within Israel, highlighting his family's dedicated "work of the service" as "keepers of the gates of the tabernacle" for the LORD.
TRV