### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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