### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mêyshâʼ**, represented by `{{H4331}}`, is used to identify an Israelite and is defined as "departure." The base definition also notes it can refer to a place in Arabia. This word is extremely rare, appearing only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4331}}` is within a genealogical list in 1 Chronicles. In this context, **Mesha** is named as one of the individuals begotten by a man with his wife, Hodesh `{{H2321}}`. The verse lists him alongside others who were begotten, including Jobab, Zibia, and Malcham [[1 Chronicles 8:9]]. The usage is strictly as a proper name within a record of lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only biblical context help to frame its meaning:
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear young; beget): This primitive root verb establishes the act of procreation that places Mesha within the genealogy. The text states that he was **begotten** [[1 Chronicles 8:9]] by his father.
* `{{H802}}` **ʼishshâh** (a woman; wife): This term identifies Hodesh as the **wife** and mother of Mesha and his siblings [[1 Chronicles 8:9]]. The word is fundamental to the concept of family, as established in passages like [[Genesis 2:24]].
* `{{H3103}}` **Yôwbâb** (Jobab): This name identifies one of the individuals listed alongside Mesha [[1 Chronicles 8:9]]. The name **Jobab** also appears in other significant genealogies, including as a son of Joktan [[Genesis 10:29]] and as a king of Edom [[Genesis 36:33]].
* `{{H4445}}` **Malkâm** (Malcham): Another individual listed with Mesha [[1 Chronicles 8:9]]. This name is notably similar to **Milcom**, the national idol of the Ammonites, which King Solomon was condemned for worshipping [[1 Kings 11:5]].
### Theological Significance
While `{{H4331}}` itself does not carry significant theological weight, its placement within a biblical genealogy is important for several reasons:
* **Preservation of Heritage:** Mesha's inclusion in the biblical record, however brief, highlights the scriptural importance of lineage. Genealogies serve to document and preserve the family lines that constitute the people of Israel [[1 Chronicles 8:9]].
* **A Piece of the Record:** The mention of **Mesha** contributes to the vast and detailed ancestral records of the Old Testament. These lists affirm the historical continuity and identity of God's people.
* **Context of Names:** The name appears in a list that includes **Malcham** `{{H4445}}`. This name is also associated with the idol **Milcom** [[1 Kings 11:5]], illustrating how personal names within Israel could sometimes echo names from surrounding cultures, including those of foreign gods.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H4331}}` **Mêyshâʼ** is a proper name appearing a single time in a genealogical list. Its significance is derived entirely from this context, where it serves as a marker of an individual within a recorded lineage. While not a major theological term, its presence demonstrates the Bible's meticulous concern for preserving the heritage and family lines of the Israelite people, showing that every name in the record is a part of the larger scriptural narrative.
TRV