The Hebrew word ʻĂzûwbâh, represented by H5806, is a proper name defined as "the same as עֲזוּבָה; Azubah, the name of two Israelitesses; Azubah." It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. The name is consistently used to identify two specific women within the lineage of Israel.
In the biblical narrative, H5806 identifies two distinct individuals. The first is Azubah, the daughter of Shilhi, who was the mother of King Jehoshaphat of Judah (1 Kings 22:42, 2 Chronicles 20:31). The second is Azubah, the wife of Caleb the son of Hezron. This Azubah is recorded as bearing children for Caleb before her death 1 Chronicles 2:18-19.
Several related words provide context for the life events associated with the name Azubah:
- H802 ʼishshâh (wife): This word is used to define Azubah's relationship to Caleb, identifying her specifically as his wife 1 Chronicles 2:18. It is a term for a woman, often in a marital role.
- H4191 mûwth (to die): This root word is used to mark the end of the second Azubah's story in the genealogical record, stating simply that she was dead before Caleb took another wife 1 Chronicles 2:19.
The significance of H5806 is tied to the roles these women played in the history of Israel.
- Royal Matriarchy: As the mother of King Jehoshaphat, the first Azubah's name is preserved in the royal history of Judah, highlighting the importance of the queen mother's identity in the official record 1 Kings 22:42.
- Genealogical Continuation: The second Azubah is significant as a wife of Caleb and mother to his sons, Jesher, Shobab, and Ardon 1 Chronicles 2:18. Her inclusion is critical for documenting the lineage of the house of Hezron.
- Narrative Structure: The mention of Azubah's death serves as a key point in the genealogical account, marking a transition in Caleb's lineage as he subsequently marries Ephrath, who bore him Hur 1 Chronicles 2:19.
In summary, H5806 is not an abstract concept but the specific name of two women whose identities were crucial for biblical record-keeping. One anchors the maternal line of a prominent king of Judah, while the other establishes a branch in the important family of Caleb. The name Azubah is preserved in Scripture to affirm these key genealogical and historical connections.
TRV