The Hebrew word Mâshâl, represented by H4913, is the proper name for Mashal, a place in Palestine. Its base definition is derived from a similar word, מִשְׁאָל. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, marking it as a highly specific geographical reference within the Old Testament.
The single biblical reference to H4913 occurs in a genealogical and geographical list within the book of Chronicles. In this passage, Mashal is identified as one of the cities located within the territory of the tribe of Asher. Specifically, it is listed as a city given to the Levites, mentioned along "with her suburbs" 1 Chronicles 6:74. It is named in conjunction with another Levitical city, Abdon.
Several related words provide context for the location and status of Mashal:
- H836 ʼÂshêr (happy): This is the name for Asher, a son of Jacob, and the tribe that descended from him. The territory of this tribe is where Mashal was located 1 Chronicles 6:74. The name reflects Leah's joy at his birth Genesis 30:13.
- H4294 maṭṭeh (tribe; rod; staff): This word figuratively refers to a tribe, as seen in the designation "tribe of Asher" 1 Chronicles 6:74. It can also literally mean a rod or staff, used for ruling or support.
- H4054 migrâsh (suburb; cast out): This term denotes the open pasture land or area surrounding a city. It is used to describe the lands associated with Levitical cities, including Mashal 1 Chronicles 6:74, and was essential for their livelihood Numbers 35:2.
- H5658 ʻAbdôwn (servitude): This is the name of a place in Palestine, listed alongside Mashal as a city given to the Levites from the tribe of Asher 1 Chronicles 6:74. The name is also used for four different individuals in the scriptures.
While a place name, the context of H4913 touches upon significant theological themes related to God's covenant with Israel.
- Tribal Inheritance: The assignment of Mashal within the land of Asher H836 is part of the broader fulfillment of God's promise to distribute the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel.
- Provision for the Levites: The designation of Mashal as a Levitical city is crucial. The Levites were not given a single large territory but were intentionally distributed throughout Israel in designated cities with suburbs H4054, ensuring their presence and priestly function among all the tribes as commanded by God Numbers 35:2.
- Geographic Specificity: The explicit naming of places like Mashal roots the biblical account in a tangible, historical geography, reinforcing the record of how the land was settled and organized according to divine instruction 1 Chronicles 6:74.
In summary, H4913 Mâshâl is a specific place name whose singular appearance in scripture is nonetheless significant. Its mention in 1 Chronicles 6:74 firmly places it within the tribe of Asher and identifies it as one of the cities set apart for the Levites. The context surrounding this word illustrates the fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding the inheritance of the land and His detailed provision for the priestly tribe within the nation of Israel.
TRV