patrial from an unused noun from an unused root; probably meaning to stretch out; extension; a Mishraite, or inhabitant (collectively) of Mishra; Mishraites.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **Mishrâʻîy**, represented by `{{H4954}}`, is a patrial term for the **Mishraites**. It is derived from a root that probably means "extension." It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, identifying an inhabitant or family group from a place called Mishra.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H4954}}` is within the genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles. The verse states that the **Mishraites** were one of "the families of Kirjathjearim" [[1 Chronicles 2:53]]. This passage is concerned with establishing the lineage of various clans. It further notes that from these foundational families, including the Mishraites, "came the Zareathites, and the Eshtaulites," thus positioning the Mishraites as an ancestral group for other recognized communities within Israel.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse provide a context for understanding the role of the Mishraites:
* `{{H4940}}` **mishpâchâh** (families): This word establishes the context for the list, defining the Mishraites as one of a "circle of relatives" or clan. It is used broadly in scripture to denote a family, tribe, or people.
* `{{H7157}}` **Qiryath Yᵉʻârîym** (Kirjathjearim): This identifies the geographical origin of the Mishraite family. It is defined as the "city of forests," a place in Palestine.
* `{{H3505}}` **Yithrîy** (Ithrites): This term for another family, the Ithrites, is listed alongside the Mishraites, showing they are part of the same collection of clans from Kirjathjearim [[1 Chronicles 2:53]].
* `{{H3318}}` **yâtsâʼ** (came): This crucial verb, meaning "to go... out" or "bring forth," connects the Mishraites to their descendants, indicating that other clans originated from them.
* `{{H6882}}` **Tsorʻîy** (Zareathites): This term identifies one of the descendant groups that "came" from the families of Kirjathjearim, including the Mishraites [[1 Chronicles 2:53]].
### Theological Significance
While not a term with direct theological arguments, the significance of `{{H4954}}` lies in its genealogical function.
* **Preserving Lineage:** Its inclusion in the biblical record underscores the importance of preserving the identity and heritage of every family `{{H4940}}` within the nation of Israel.
* **Community and Place:** The term ties a specific people, the Mishraites, to a specific place, Kirjathjearim `{{H7157}}`, reinforcing the connection between land and people that is central to the Old Testament narrative.
* **Foundation for Posterity:** By noting that the Zareathites `{{H6882}}` and Eshtaulites `{{H848}}` "came" `{{H3318}}` from the Mishraites and their associated families, the text highlights their role as a source clan, contributing to the growth and continuation of Israel.
### Summary
In summary, **Mishrâʻîy** `{{H4954}}` is a specific genealogical term whose importance is found in its single mention in [[1 Chronicles 2:53]]. It serves as a marker of identity, connecting a particular family to a place and to its descendants. Its presence demonstrates the meticulous care taken within scripture to account for the various families that collectively constituted the people of Israel.
TRV