for מִשְׁאָל; Mashal, a place in Palestine; Mashal.
Transliteration:Mâshâl
Pronunciation:maw-shawl'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4913}}` (Mâshâl) is a proper noun, specifically a geographical designation. Its core meaning is simply "Mashal," a place in ancient Palestine. The Strong's definition indicates it is "for `{{H4912}}` (מִשְׁאָל)," which signifies a connection to the root meaning of "request" or "petition." Thus, while primarily a place name, its etymological root suggests a potential underlying meaning of "place of request" or "place of petition." Unlike common nouns or verbs, a proper noun's semantic range is limited to its identity as a specific location, though its etymological foundation may offer a deeper, symbolic resonance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{H4913}}` (Mâshâl) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 6:74]]: "And out of the tribe of Asher; Mashal with her suburbs, and Abdon with her suburbs," (KJV).
* In this sole occurrence, Mashal is listed as one of the cities allotted to the Gershonite Levites from the territory of the tribe of Asher. This passage, part of a detailed genealogical and geographical account, meticulously records the distribution of land and cities among the tribes of Israel and the Levites. The inclusion of Mashal highlights its status as a designated Levitical city, underscoring the divine provision for the religious functionaries within the tribal inheritance. Its mention in this context is purely descriptive, serving to document the fulfillment of God's instructions regarding the settlement of the land.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic connection for `{{H4913}}` (Mâshâl) is to `{{H4912}}` (מִשְׁאָל, *mish'al*), meaning "request" or "petition." This etymological link, explicitly noted in the base definition, suggests a potential original significance for the place name, though its precise historical context remains speculative. It is crucial to distinguish `{{H4913}}` from `{{H4911}}` (מָשָׁל, *māshāl*), which, despite sharing a similar transliteration, refers to a "proverb," "parable," or "likeness," and has a distinct etymology and semantic field.
Conceptually, Mashal is related to:
* **Levitical Cities:** As one of the cities designated for the Levites, Mashal belongs to a distinct category of settlements that served as centers for priestly and teaching functions throughout Israel.
* **Tribal Allotments:** Its inclusion in the territory of Asher reflects the meticulous division of the land of Canaan among the twelve tribes, a central theme in the books of Joshua and Chronicles.
* **Divine Provision:** The allocation of cities like Mashal to the landless Levites demonstrates God's faithful provision for those consecrated to His service, ensuring their sustenance and enabling their ministry.
### Theological Significance
While Mashal itself is a geographical proper noun with limited narrative significance, its identification as a Levitical city carries profound theological weight.
1. **Fulfillment of Covenant:** The existence and designation of cities like Mashal demonstrate God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham and Moses regarding the land inheritance and the establishment of a theocratic nation.
2. **Divine Order and Provision:** The meticulous listing of Levitical cities, including Mashal, underscores God's divine order for the nascent nation of Israel. It illustrates His provision for the Levites, who, unlike the other tribes, received no territorial inheritance but were sustained by the tithes and offerings of the people and by these designated cities. This arrangement ensured the spiritual health of the nation by supporting those dedicated to the worship and instruction of Yahweh.
3. **Symbol of Presence:** As a Levitical city, Mashal would have been a place where the Law was taught and God's presence was acknowledged through the ministry of the Levites. While not a city of refuge, its role contributed to the overall spiritual infrastructure of Israel.
### Summary
`{{H4913}}` (Mâshâl) designates a specific place name in ancient Israel, mentioned solely in [[1 Chronicles 6:74]] as a Levitical city allotted to the Gershonites from the tribe of Asher. While its etymology hints at a connection to "request" or "petition" (`{{H4912}}`), its primary biblical significance lies in its role within the meticulously organized tribal allotments. Theologically, Mashal serves as a quiet testament to God's faithful fulfillment of His covenant, His meticulous divine order, and His unwavering provision for those consecrated to His service, ensuring the spiritual well-being of His people within the Promised Land.
TRV