The Hebrew name Mishʻâm, represented by H4936, identifies a specific Israelite. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible. The name's definition is inspection.
In the biblical narrative, H4936 appears exclusively within a genealogical record. Misham is named as one of the sons of Elpaal, alongside his brothers Eber and Shamed. This lineage is credited with a significant act of construction: they "built Ono, and Lod, with the towns thereof" 1 Chronicles 8:12. This single mention places Misham firmly within the history of tribal settlement and city-building.
Several related words provide context for Misham's identity and actions:
- H1121 bên (a son): This word establishes Misham's identity as a descendant, or son, of Elpaal, placing him within a specific family line 1 Chronicles 8:12.
- H1129 bânâh (to build): This root word is directly connected to the legacy of Misham and his brothers, who are credited as those who built the cities of Ono and Lod 1 Chronicles 8:12.
- H5677 ʻÊbêr (Eber, Heber): Listed as a brother of Misham, this name identifies another of the sons of Elpaal who participated in the building activity 1 Chronicles 8:12.
- H207 ʼÔwnôw (Ono): This is the name of one of the cities that Misham and his brothers built, defining his historical contribution within the text 1 Chronicles 8:12.
The historical weight of H4936 is tied to its genealogical and foundational context.
- Genealogical Marker: The name Misham serves to define a specific branch in a recorded lineage, identifying him as a son of Elpaal 1 Chronicles 8:12.
- Legacy of Building: Beyond just being a name in a list, Misham is associated with a creative and foundational act: the building of established cities like Ono and Lod 1 Chronicles 8:12. This ties his identity to the development and settlement of the land.
- Familial Collaboration: The text presents this building effort as a collective work of brothers, highlighting the role of family units in establishing communities in ancient Israel 1 Chronicles 8:12.
In summary, H4936 is not a theological term but a proper name, Misham, that marks a specific individual in Israel's history. Its sole appearance in scripture provides a concise but significant piece of information, linking him to the lineage of Elpaal and crediting him and his brothers as the founders of Ono and Lod. This single verse 1 Chronicles 8:12 demonstrates how genealogical records preserve the memory of individuals through their family ties and tangible contributions.
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