### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼĂbîyshûwaʻ**, represented by `{{H50}}`, means **father of plenty (i.e. prosperous)**. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. This name is not a common noun but is used to identify two specific Israelites within the biblical genealogies.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H50}}` primarily serves to establish lineage, particularly within the priesthood of Aaron. One Abishua is recorded as the son of Phinehas [[1 Chronicles 6:4]] and the father of Bukki [[1 Chronicles 6:5]]. His position in the priestly line is confirmed in the genealogy that traces back to "Aaron the chief priest" [[Ezra 7:5]]. A second individual named Abishua appears in a different context, listed among the descendants of Benjamin alongside Naaman and Ahoah [[1 Chronicles 8:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related names and terms help place **ʼĂbîyshûwaʻ** within his genealogical context:
* `{{H6372}}` **Phîynᵉchâç** (Phinehas): As the father of Abishua, this name links him to the priestly line [[1 Chronicles 6:4]]. Phinehas is defined as "mouth of a serpent; Pinechas, the name of three Israelites."
* `{{H1231}}` **Buqqîy** (Bukki): Defined as "wasteful; Bukki, the name of two Israelites," this is the name of the son whom Abishua begat, continuing the priestly succession [[1 Chronicles 6:5]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (son): This term, meaning "a son (as a builder of the family name)," is the structural word used to trace Abishua’s lineage back to Aaron the priest [[Ezra 7:5]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of **ʼĂbîyshûwaʻ** is rooted in his genealogical placement, which preserves the record of sacred and tribal lines.
* **Priestly Continuity:** Abishua is a crucial link in the unbroken line of the priesthood descending from Aaron. His inclusion in the genealogies of Ezra and 1 Chronicles affirms the continuity of the line leading to the "chief priest" (`{{H7218}}`, `{{H3548}}`) [[Ezra 7:5]].
* **Genealogical Identity:** The name’s use in two different lineages—one priestly and one Benjaminite—highlights the importance of these records for establishing historical and tribal identity within Israel ([[1 Chronicles 6:50]], [[1 Chronicles 8:4]]).
* **Father of Plenty:** The name itself carries the meaning "father of plenty (i.e. prosperous)," standing as an identifying marker within the sacred historical account.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H50}}` functions as a proper name whose importance lies in its role within biblical genealogies. Its appearances are concentrated in lists that serve the critical function of identifying key individuals in two distinct lineages. One Abishua helps secure the historical record of the Aaronic priesthood [[1 Chronicles 6:4]], while another is noted in the lineage of Benjamin [[1 Chronicles 8:4]]. The name **ʼĂbîyshûwaʻ** is therefore a vital marker for preserving the priestly and tribal identity of Israel.
TRV