apparently from שָׁעָה; inspection; Misham, an Israelite; Misham.
Transliteration:Mishʻâm
Pronunciation:mish-awm'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word מִשְׁעָם (Mishʻâm), identified by Strong's `{{H4936}}`, is a proper noun, specifically a masculine personal name. Its base definition suggests a derivation from the verb שָׁעָה (`{{H8159}}`), which carries the primary meaning "to look, gaze, behold, regard, inspect, consider." Thus, the name Mishʻâm fundamentally conveys the sense of "inspection" or "gazing." As a proper noun, its semantic range is confined to its identity as a name, with its etymological root providing insight into its potential significance or the hopes associated with its bearer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name מִשְׁעָם (Mishʻâm) appears only once in the Old Testament, found in the book of Chronicles:
* [[1 Chronicles 8:12]]: "And Elpaal's sons; Eber, and Misham, and Shamed, who built Ono, and Lod, with the towns thereof."
In this solitary occurrence, Misham is presented as a descendant of Benjamin, specifically one of the sons of Elpaal. The context is a genealogical record, detailing the lineage and significant actions of members of the tribe of Benjamin. Misham, along with his brothers Eber and Shamed, is credited with building the cities of Ono and Lod, indicating a role in the establishment or rebuilding of settlements, likely after a period of displacement or destruction. Beyond this brief mention in a genealogical list, no further narrative or descriptive details are provided about Misham's life or character. His significance in the biblical text is primarily as a link in the tribal lineage and an agent in the development of these Benjamite towns.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for מִשְׁעָם (Mishʻâm) is its proposed root, שָׁעָה (`{{H8159}}`). This verb signifies the act of looking, gazing, or inspecting, often with an implication of attention or regard. Examples of its usage include:
* [[Psalm 39:13]]: "O spare me, that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more." (Here, "spare me" is from שָׁעָה, meaning "look away from me" or "turn your gaze away from me.")
* [[Isaiah 17:7]]: "At that day shall a man look to his Maker, and his eyes shall have respect to the Holy One of Israel." (Here, "look to" is from שָׁעָה, indicating turning one's attention or gaze towards God.)
Other Hebrew words related to the broader concept of seeing, watching, or observing, though not directly etymologically linked to H4936, include:
* רָאָה (`{{H7200}}`): the most common verb for "to see," often implying perception or understanding.
* נָבַט (`{{H5027}}`): "to look," often with an emphasis on directing one's gaze.
* שָׁמַר (`{{H8104}}`): "to keep, watch, guard," implying careful observation and protection.
The concept inherent in Mishʻâm's root, that of "inspection" or "gazing," resonates with themes of divine oversight, human attentiveness, and the act of discerning.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun, Mishʻâm does not carry a direct theological doctrine or command. However, its etymological root from שָׁעָה (to look, inspect) allows for a reflection on subtle theological implications, common in the naming conventions of ancient Israel:
1. **Divine Providence and Oversight:** The name could implicitly acknowledge God's continuous "gaze" or "inspection" over His people and creation. This speaks to God's omnipresence and His active involvement in the affairs of humanity, whether in watchful care, discerning judgment, or benevolent attention. Parents naming a child Misham might have been expressing a hope or recognition of God's watchful eye over their family or the community.
2. **Human Attentiveness and Discernment:** Alternatively, the name could reflect a desired characteristic for the child—one who is observant, discerning, or attentive. In a spiritual sense, this could mean being attentive to God's commands, His presence, or the needs of others in the community. Such a person would be one who "looks carefully" at their path and lives with intentionality.
3. **Aspiration for Insight:** The act of "inspection" can also imply gaining insight or understanding. The name might have been an aspiration for the child to possess wisdom and discernment, to "look deeply" into matters, and to understand the ways of the Lord.
While Misham himself is a minor figure, his name, like many in the biblical genealogies, offers a window into the theological worldview and aspirations of the people of God, even in the most succinct of references.
### Summary
מִשְׁעָם (Mishʻâm), Strong's `{{H4936}}`, is a Hebrew personal name derived from the verb שָׁעָה (`{{H8159}}`), meaning "to look" or "to inspect." It appears only once in the biblical text, in [[1 Chronicles 8:12]], where Misham is identified as a son of Elpaal from the tribe of Benjamin, noted along with his brothers for building the cities of Ono and Lod. While his biblical narrative is extremely brief, the etymology of his name subtly connects to the broader biblical themes of divine oversight and human attentiveness. In the context of Israelite naming practices, Mishʻâm could reflect a parent's acknowledgment of God's watchful care or their hope for the child to be discerning and observant in their life and faith.
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