The Hebrew name ʻÊbêr, represented by H5677, is primarily used to identify specific individuals in the biblical record. It is defined as "Eber, the name of two patriarchs and four Israelites; Eber, Heber." The name appears 15 times across 15 unique verses, primarily within genealogical lists that establish the lineage from Shem.
In the biblical narrative, H5677 is most prominent as the name of a post-flood patriarch. He is identified as the son of Salah and the grandson of Arphaxad (Genesis 10:24, 1 Chronicles 1:18). Eber is the father of two sons, Peleg and Joktan Genesis 10:25. The birth of his son Peleg is noted as a historical marker, "for in his days was the earth divided" Genesis 10:25. The importance of this lineage is emphasized when Shem is called "the father of all the children of Eber" Genesis 10:21. The name also appears in a prophecy where Eber, representing a people, will be afflicted Numbers 24:24. Other individuals named Eber or Heber are found in the lineages of Elpaal 1 Chronicles 8:12, the Gadites 1 Chronicles 5:13, the Benjamites 1 Chronicles 8:22, and the priesthood Nehemiah 12:20.
Several related words are key to understanding the context in which H5677 appears, particularly within genealogies:
- H3205 yâlad (to beget): This root word is used repeatedly to construct the lineage of Eber, stating that his father Salah did beget him Genesis 11:14 and that Eber in turn did beget his son Peleg Genesis 11:16.
- H1121 bên (son): This word is essential for defining the generational relationships. Eber is the father of two sons Genesis 10:25, and he continued to beget sons and daughters throughout his life Genesis 11:17.
- H1 ʼâb (father): This term establishes patriarchal authority and descent. Shem is referred to as the father of all of Eber's descendants, highlighting Eber as a founder of a major branch of humanity Genesis 10:21.
- H251 ʼâch (brother): This word clarifies the immediate family structure of Eber's descendants, specifying that Peleg had a brother named Joktan Genesis 10:25.
The genealogical and historical weight of H5677 is significant for understanding the biblical timeline and lineage.
- Progenitor of a Nation: Eber is presented as a major patriarch whose descendants form a distinct group. Shem is specifically called the ancestor of "all the children of Eber" Genesis 10:21, and the name is used to denote a people in the prophecy of Numbers 24:24.
- Key Genealogical Link: The name Eber serves as a critical link in the line from Shem to later figures. The genealogies in Genesis and 1 Chronicles meticulously trace his parentage through Salah H7974 and Arphaxad H775, and his descendants through Peleg H6389.
- Historical Time Marker: The era in which Eber lived is tied to a pivotal event in history. Scripture notes that the birth of his son Peleg occurred at the time "the earth was divided" (Genesis 10:25, 1 Chronicles 1:19), making his family's timeline a reference point.
In summary, H5677 is more than just a name; it is a vital genealogical marker in the Old Testament. It primarily identifies the patriarch Eber, a foundational figure in the lineage of Shem whose descendants became a significant people group. His life is also used to anchor the historical event of the earth's division. The repeated use of the name for other Israelites shows its enduring place within the culture that descended from him, solidifying its importance for biblical lineage and identity.
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