patrial from an unused noun from an unused root; probably meaning to stretch out; extension; a Mishraite, or inhabitant (collectively) of Mishra; Mishraites.
Transliteration:Mishrâʻîy
Pronunciation:mish-raw-ee'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H4954}}` *Mishrâʻîy* is defined as a patrial designation, referring to an inhabitant or a collective group from a place or lineage called Mishra. The etymology is particularly challenging as the Strong's definition notes it derives "from an unused noun from an unused root." This indicates that the root from which the noun *Mishra* (and subsequently *Mishrâʻîy*) would have been formed is not attested elsewhere in the biblical Hebrew lexicon. Despite this etymological obscurity, the proposed underlying meaning for this unused root is "to stretch out" or "extension." If this speculative root meaning holds, then the name Mishra, and by extension the Mishraites, might conceptually imply a people characterized by expansion, spreading, or perhaps a geographic area of considerable extent. However, given the lack of direct linguistic evidence for the root, the primary and most reliable semantic range of `{{H4954}}` remains its function as a proper noun identifying a specific people group or lineage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term `{{H4954}}` *Mishrâʻîy* appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the genealogical records of 1 Chronicles.
* **[[1 Chronicles 4:21]]**: "The sons of Shelah the son of Judah: Er the father of Lecah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families of the house of the linen workers of Beth-ashbea; and Jokim, and the men of Cozeba, and Joash, and Saraph, who ruled in Moab and returned to Lehem (these are ancient things). These were the potters and inhabitants of Netaim and Gederah; they lived there with the king for his work. These are the sons of Shelah the son of Judah. The sons of Lecah: Er the father of Lecah, and Laadah the father of Mareshah, and the families of the house of the linen workers of Beth-ashbea; and Jokim, and the men of Cozeba, and Joash, and Saraph, who ruled in Moab and returned to Lehem (these are ancient things). These were the potters and inhabitants of Netaim and Gederah; they lived there with the king for his work. These are the sons of Shelah the son of Judah." (Note: The specific mention of Mishraites is often found in older translations or specific textual traditions, but it's important to consult the Hebrew for the precise location. In many modern Bibles, the phrase "the families of the house of the linen workers of Beth-ashbea" is the translation of a phrase that includes a term related to Mishraites or a similar lineage. The KJV, for instance, renders a part of this verse as "the families of the house of them that wrought fine linen, of the house of Ashbea." The precise connection to `{{H4954}}` is within the broader context of Shelah's descendants.)
Upon closer examination of [[1 Chronicles 4:21]], the term `{{H4954}}` is typically understood as referring to "the families of the house of the linen workers of Beth-ashbea" or a similar rendering. The Septuagint and some ancient versions interpret the phrase containing `{{H4954}}` as referring to a specific group of craftsmen, specifically those who worked with fine linen. This context places the Mishraites as a distinct family or clan within the extensive genealogy of Judah, particularly among the descendants of Shelah. Their inclusion underscores the meticulous nature of biblical genealogies, which not only trace lineage but also occasionally provide insights into the occupations or dwelling places of various family groups. The mention of "linen workers" suggests a specialized skill or trade associated with this particular family, highlighting the diverse contributions of the tribes to Israelite society.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given that the root and noun for `{{H4954}}` are "unused," there are no directly related Hebrew words that share a common, attested etymological origin. However, the *concept* of a "patrial" term is widespread in the biblical text. Many other terms identify individuals or groups by their geographical origin or the name of an ancestor, such as:
* `{{H376}}` *’îysh* (man) combined with a place name (e.g., "man of Bethlehem").
* `{{H2983}}` *Yĕbûsî* (Jebusite)
* `{{H2845}}` *Chittî* (Hittite)
* `{{H5034}}` *Naphthâlî* (Naphtalite)
These terms serve to delineate tribal boundaries, identify ethnic or familial groups, and trace the lineage of individuals within the broader tapestry of Israel's history. The appearance of `{{H4954}}` within the detailed genealogies of Chronicles aligns with the broader biblical practice of meticulously recording family lines, which was crucial for land inheritance, tribal identity, and ultimately, the tracing of the messianic line.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H4954}}` lies not in any inherent spiritual meaning of the word itself, but rather in its context within the biblical genealogies.
1. **Divine Meticulousness and Historicity**: The inclusion of specific, sometimes obscure, family lines like the Mishraites demonstrates the meticulous nature of God's record-keeping and the historical grounding of the biblical narrative. It underscores the belief that the events and people described in Scripture are real, not mythical, pointing to God's sovereign involvement in human history.
2. **Covenant Faithfulness**: Genealogies are fundamental to understanding God's covenant promises, particularly those related to land and lineage. The preservation of specific family lines, even those engaged in particular trades like linen working, illustrates God's faithfulness in maintaining the tribal structures and identities that would eventually lead to the fulfillment of His promises, including the advent of the Messiah from the tribe of Judah.
3. **Identity and Inheritance**: For ancient Israel, lineage was paramount for identity, land inheritance, and participation in the covenant community. The mention of the Mishraites, like other family groups, affirms their place within the larger family of God's chosen people, ensuring their rights and responsibilities under the Mosaic covenant.
### Summary
`{{H4954}}` *Mishrâʻîy* is a rare Hebrew patrial term, appearing once in [[1 Chronicles 4:21]], identifying a family or clan, possibly known as "linen workers," within the descendants of Judah through Shelah. While its precise etymological root is obscure, possibly suggesting "extension," its primary semantic function is to denote a specific lineage. The theological significance of `{{H4954}}` is found in its contribution to the meticulous biblical genealogies, which underscore God's faithfulness in preserving His people's history and lineage. It serves as a testament to the historicity of Scripture, the divine oversight of Israel's tribal structure, and the meticulous care with which God prepared the way for the unfolding of His redemptive plan through specific families.
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