The Hebrew word ʻEglâh, represented by H5698, is the proper name for Eglah, a wife of David. Based on the biblical record, it refers to a specific individual and is not used as a common noun. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses, exclusively in the context of King David's family.
In the biblical narrative, H5698 is used to identify one of King David's wives and the mother of one of his sons. The two occurrences provide a consistent genealogical record. In both 2 Samuel 3:5 and 1 Chronicles 3:3, Eglah is named as the mother of Ithream, David's sixth son. The account in 2 Samuel 3:5 specifies that these sons were born to David in Hebron, fixing her place within a specific period of David's reign.
The identity of ʻEglâh is established through her relationships, which are defined by several key Hebrew words:
- H802 ʼishshâh (wife): This word explicitly defines her status. Both accounts refer to her as David's wife (1 Chronicles 3:3, 2 Samuel 3:5), cementing her position within the royal household.
- H3507 Yithrᵉʻâm (Ithream): This is the name of her son with David. The passages are structured to identify him as being "by Eglah" 1 Chronicles 3:3, directly linking her to the Davidic lineage through her child.
- H8345 shishshîy (sixth): This term of order is used in both verses to number her son, Ithream, as the sixth son born to David, providing a clear position for him in the family list (2 Samuel 3:5, 1 Chronicles 3:3).
The significance of H5698 is primarily historical and genealogical rather than theological.
- Royal Lineage: Eglah's inclusion in the official lists of David's family is crucial for the biblical record of the Davidic dynasty. Her name ensures the maternal ancestry of her son, Ithream, is preserved.
- Wife of David: She is one of several women identified as a wife H802 of David. Her mention contributes to the complete picture of David's family during his time in Hebron, as documented in the historical books 2 Samuel 3:5.
- Maternal Identity: Her role is defined entirely by her status as a wife H802 and a mother. The text presents her identity as being "by Eglah his wife," emphasizing her role in bearing a son for the king 1 Chronicles 3:3.
In summary, H5698 ʻEglâh is not a conceptual term but the name of a specific historical figure. Her two appearances in Scripture serve the important function of documenting the lineage of King David. Her identity is inextricably linked to her husband, David, and her son, Ithream H3507, solidifying her place as a recorded ancestor in Israel's royal family.
TRV