The Hebrew name Mishmâʻ, represented by H4927, identifies two distinct individuals in the Old Testament. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses. The name is used to denote both a son of Ishmael and a separate Israelite individual, serving exclusively as a genealogical marker.
In the biblical narrative, H4927 is used to establish lineage in two different family lines. First, Mishma is listed as one of the sons of Ishmael in the accounts found in both Genesis and 1 Chronicles (Genesis 25:14; 1 Chronicles 1:30). Second, the name appears in an Israelite genealogy, where Mishma is identified as the son of Mibsam 1 Chronicles 4:25. This same Mishma is then recorded as the father of Hamuel, Zacchur, and Shimei 1 Chronicles 4:26.
Several related words appear in the context of these genealogies, defining the familial relationships of Mishmâʻ:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word is essential to the verses where Mishma is mentioned, defining his relationship as a son to Mibsam and a father to his own sons (1 Chronicles 4:25; 1 Chronicles 4:26).
- H1746 Dûwmâh (Dumah, a tribe and region of Arabia): Listed as a brother of Mishma in the genealogies of Ishmael's sons (Genesis 25:14; 1 Chronicles 1:30).
- H4017 Mibsâm (fragrant; Mibsam, the name of an Ishmaelite and of an Israelite): Identified as the father of the Israelite Mishma 1 Chronicles 4:25.
- H2536 Chammûwʼêl (anger of God; Chammuel, an Israelite): Named as a son of the Israelite Mishma, continuing his lineage 1 Chronicles 4:26.
The significance of H4927 is rooted entirely in its genealogical function, establishing identity and succession.
- Ishmaelite Progenitor: Mishma is recorded as a son of Ishmael, placing him within the ancestral lists of the peoples descended from Abraham through Hagar (Genesis 25:14; 1 Chronicles 1:30).
- Israelite Lineage: The name's appearance in 1 Chronicles shows a separate individual named Mishma within an Israelite family line, identified as the son of Mibsam 1 Chronicles 4:25.
- Generational Link: The record provides continuity by not only naming Mishma's father but also listing his sons, thereby securing his place as a link between generations in the Israelite record 1 Chronicles 4:26.
In summary, H4927 Mishmâʻ is a proper name whose sole function in scripture is to mark an individual's place within a genealogy. It appears in two distinct contexts: once to identify a son of Ishmael, and again to identify an Israelite father and son. The name's importance lies in its contribution to the detailed ancestral records maintained in Genesis and 1 Chronicles.
TRV