### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼAlmôwdâd**, represented by `{{H486}}`, refers to **Almodad, a son of Joktan**. The definition states it is probably of foreign derivation. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, where its sole purpose is to identify an individual within a specific patriarchal lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H486}}` is found exclusively within genealogical lists. Both occurrences are identical, recording Almodad as a descendant of Joktan. The passages in [[Genesis 10:26]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:20]] state, "And Joktan begat Almodad, and Sheleph, and Hazarmaveth, and Jerah." This places him firmly within the table of early peoples descending from Shem's line.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for Almodad's place in the genealogies:
* `{{H3355}}` **Yoqṭân** (Joktan, an Arabian patriarch): This is the father of Almodad. His name is central to understanding Almodad's lineage, as both verses establish the relationship: "Joktan begat Almodad" [[Genesis 10:26]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget, to show lineage): This verb is the action that connects Almodad to his father in the biblical text. It is used in both [[Genesis 10:26]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:20]] to establish the parent-child relationship.
* `{{H8026}}` **sheleph** (Sheleph, a son of Jokthan): This is one of Almodad's brothers, listed immediately after him in both genealogical accounts ([[Genesis 10:26]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:20]]), defining the immediate family unit.
* `{{H2700}}` **Chătsarmâveth** (Hazarmaveth, a place in Arabia): Another of Almodad's brothers, listed alongside him as a son of Joktan ([[Genesis 10:26]]; [[1 Chronicles 1:20]]).
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H486}}` is purely genealogical, serving to record the history of nations and tribes.
* **Patriarchal Lineage:** The name Almodad serves as a key link in the recorded descent from Joktan. Its inclusion in Genesis and its careful repetition in 1 Chronicles underscore the importance of preserving these family lines.
* **Son of Joktan:** Almodad's identity in scripture is defined entirely by his sonship to **Joktan** `{{H3355}}`. He is mentioned as the first in the list of Joktan's sons in both passages.
* **Record of Peoples:** As a son of an Arabian patriarch, Almodad's name represents the origin of one of the ancient family groups that populated the region.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H486}}` is a proper name with a narrow and specific function in the Old Testament. Appearing only in two parallel genealogical lists, the name **ʼAlmôwdâd** exists in the text to identify one of the sons of Joktan. It serves as a marker in the biblical record, documenting the lineage of early peoples as understood by the ancient Israelites.
TRV