The Hebrew word ʻÊyphâh, represented by H5891, is a proper name appearing as Ephah in scripture. It appears 5 times in 5 unique verses. The name is used for multiple figures and a region: a son of Midian, the region settled by his descendants, a male Israelite, and an Israelitess.
In the biblical narrative, H5891 is primarily used to establish lineage. Ephah is first introduced as a son of Midian and a descendant of Keturah (Genesis 25:4; 1 Chronicles 1:33). The name also appears in Israelite genealogies: once for a male descendant of Jahdai 1 Chronicles 2:47 and once for a female, Caleb's concubine 1 Chronicles 2:46. In a prophetic context, Ephah is mentioned as a region, alongside Midian, whose people will come bringing gold and incense to praise the LORD Isaiah 60:6.
Several related words clarify the genealogical and geographical context of Ephah:
- H4080 Midyân (Midian, Midianite): Defined as "Midjan, a son of Abraham; also his country and (collectively) his descendants." Ephah is identified as a son of Midian Genesis 25:4, and the region of Ephah is linked with Midian prophetically Isaiah 60:6.
- H6081 ʻÊpher (Epher): Defined as "gazelle; Epher, the name of an Arabian and of two Israelites." Epher is listed as a brother of Ephah and a son of Midian (Genesis 25:4; 1 Chronicles 1:33).
- H28 ʼĂbîydâʻ (Abida, Abidah): Defined as "father of knowledge (i.e. knowing); Abida, a son of Abraham by Keturah." Abida is also listed as a brother of Ephah in the genealogies of Midian's sons (Genesis 25:4; 1 Chronicles 1:33).
The theological significance of H5891 is primarily found in its prophetic use.
- Inclusion of the Nations: The mention of Ephah in Isaiah's prophecy highlights a future time when gentile peoples, descended from Abraham through Keturah, will participate in the worship of the LORD. They are depicted coming to bring tribute and praise Isaiah 60:6.
- Genealogical Record: As a name appearing in the genealogies of both Midian and Israel (Genesis 25:4; 1 Chronicles 2:46-47), Ephah serves as a marker in the biblical record, preserving the lines of descent as part of the larger scriptural narrative.
- Prophetic Fulfillment: The connection between the person Ephah, son of Midian, and the region of Ephah demonstrates how a patriarch's name becomes associated with his descendants and their land, which is then used in prophecy to signify that specific people group.
In summary, H5891, or Ephah, is a name used for several individuals and a region within the Old Testament. While primarily functioning as a genealogical marker for both a Midianite clan and figures within Israelite lineage, its most significant use is prophetic. The name's appearance in Isaiah points to the eventual gathering of nations to worship the LORD, transforming a simple name from a list of descendants into a symbol of future hope and inclusion.
TRV