The Hebrew name ʼĂbîyshûwr, represented by H51, means "father of (the) wall" and possibly denotes a mason. It identifies a specific Israelite, Abishur. This name is found 2 times in 2 unique verses within the biblical text, both occurring within the same genealogical record.
Abishur's identity is established within the genealogical lists of 1 Chronicles. He is recorded as one of the sons H1121 of Shammai and the grandson of Onam 1 Chronicles 2:28. The narrative further details his own family line, stating that the name H8034 of his wife H802 was Abihail, and together they had two sons, Ahban and Molid 1 Chronicles 2:29. His presence in scripture serves to connect the lineage from his father to the next generation.
Several related words and names establish Abishur's familial context:
- H8060 Shammay (destructive; Shammai, the name of three Israelites): He is identified as the father of Abishur, establishing the direct paternal link in the genealogy 1 Chronicles 2:28.
- H32 ʼĂbîyhayil (father (i.e. possessor) of might; Abihail or Abichail, the name of three Israelites and two Israelitesses): The name of Abishur's wife, through whom his lineage continued 1 Chronicles 2:29.
- H257 ʼAchbân (brother (i.e. possessor) of understanding; Achban, an Israelite): The first son H1121 that Abihail bare H3205 to Abishur, ensuring the continuation of the family line 1 Chronicles 2:29.
- H4140 Môwlîyd (genitor; Molid, an Israelite): The second son of Abishur and Abihail mentioned in the genealogical record 1 Chronicles 2:29.
The significance of H51 is rooted in its genealogical function within the biblical text.
- Genealogical Continuity: The record of Abishur, his wife Abihail H32, and the sons she bare H3205 to him—Ahban H257 and Molid H4140—is a key example of the biblical emphasis on preserving family lineage 1 Chronicles 2:29.
- A Memorial Name: The specific mention of the name H8034 of his wife, Abihail, highlights the function of names as a "mark or memorial of individuality" within these lists. It ensures that individuals who contribute to the family line are not forgotten 1 Chronicles 2:29.
- Family as a Foundation: The entry for Abishur defines him entirely by his familial relationships: he is a son H1121 of Shammai, the husband of Abihail, and the father of Ahban and Molid. This underscores the importance of the family unit in structuring Israelite society and history.
In summary, H51 ʼĂbîyshûwr is not a term with broad conceptual meaning but the proper name of an Israelite whose significance is tied to his role in a specific lineage. His brief mention in 1 Chronicles is crucial for connecting the generations of his family, from his father Shammai to his sons Ahban and Molid. The details surrounding his life—his wife and children—illustrate the value placed on family history and the meticulous preservation of lineage within the biblical narrative.
TRV