or עַלְיָן; from עָלָה; lofty; Alvan or Aljan, an Idumaean; Alian, Alvan.
Transliteration:ʻAlvân
Pronunciation:al-vawn'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word H5935 (עַלְוָן, *ʻAlvân*) is a proper noun, a personal name. Its meaning is derived from the root `{{H5927}}` (עָלָה, *ʻalâh*), which signifies "to go up, ascend, be high, lofty." Thus, the name ʻAlvân inherently carries the meaning of "lofty" or "exalted." As a proper noun, its semantic range is limited to identifying a specific individual within biblical genealogies, rather than conveying a broad conceptual meaning. The alternate spelling עַלְיָן (*ʻAlyân*) found in some manuscripts or traditions (reflected in the transliteration "Alian") maintains the same core etymological meaning.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name H5935 appears twice in the Hebrew Bible, identifying the same individual:
* [[Genesis 36:23]]: "These are the sons of Shobal: Alvan, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam."
* [[1 Chronicles 1:40]]: "The sons of Shobal: Alian, Manahath, Ebal, Shepho, and Onam."
In both instances, Alvan (or Alian in 1 Chronicles) is listed as one of the sons of Shobal, who is himself identified as a Horite chief. The Horites were the original inhabitants of Seir, the land that Esau's descendants, the Edomites, later dispossessed and occupied. These verses are part of the extensive genealogical records detailing the descendants of Esau and the chiefs of Edom, providing a historical framework for the nations surrounding early Israel. The inclusion of Alvan in these lists underscores the meticulous nature of biblical record-keeping, establishing the lineage and tribal structure of the Horites and their integration into the Edomite polity. His presence in these lists, devoid of any narrative action, serves primarily to flesh out the historical and social landscape of the region.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary linguistic connection for H5935 is its root, `{{H5927}}` (עָלָה, *ʻalâh*), which is a widely used verb in the Hebrew Bible. This root encompasses a broad range of meanings related to movement upwards: to ascend, go up, offer (as a burnt offering, which "goes up" in smoke), bring up, or be high/exalted. While Alvan is a proper noun, its etymological link to "loftiness" or "ascent" might subtly reflect the perceived status or aspirations of the Horite chiefs.
Beyond the direct linguistic connection, Alvan is related to the broader biblical concept of genealogies and tribal lists. These lists, such as those found in Genesis 36 and 1 Chronicles, are crucial for:
* Establishing the historical and geographical context of nations.
* Tracing lines of descent, both covenantal (e.g., Israel) and non-covenantal (e.g., Edom).
* Illustrating the fulfillment of divine promises concerning the proliferation of peoples.
* Highlighting the divine ordering of human society, even among those outside the direct Abrahamic covenant.
His place among the "chiefs" (אַלּוּף, *alluph*) of Edom further connects him to the socio-political structures described in the Pentateuch, differentiating them from the later kings.
### Theological Significance
As a proper noun appearing exclusively in genealogical lists, Alvan does not possess direct theological significance in terms of actions or teachings. However, his inclusion in the sacred text, along with other Edomite and Horite chiefs, carries indirect theological weight:
* **Divine Sovereignty over All Nations:** The meticulously recorded genealogies of nations like Edom demonstrate God's comprehensive sovereignty over all humanity, not just Israel. Every nation, every lineage, exists under His providential hand.
* **Historical Veracity of Scripture:** The detailed listing of names, even those without active narrative roles, underscores the Bible's commitment to historical accuracy and its claim to be a reliable record of past events and peoples.
* **The Scope of God's Plan:** While the primary focus of biblical history is the covenant people, Israel, the inclusion of neighboring peoples like the Edomites (descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother) highlights the broader scope of God's redemptive plan and His interaction with all of humanity, even as distinct lines are maintained.
* **The Nature of Genealogy in Scripture:** Genealogies serve not merely as historical records but as theological statements, affirming the continuity of life, the fulfillment of promises, and the unfolding of God's purposes through generations. The name Alvan, meaning "lofty," while perhaps a reflection of human aspiration or status, is ultimately subsumed within the divine narrative that elevates God alone.
### Summary
H5935 (עַלְוָן, *ʻAlvân*), meaning "lofty" or "exalted," is a proper noun identifying a Horite chief, a son of Shobal, within the genealogies of Edom. He is mentioned in [[Genesis 36:23]] and [[1 Chronicles 1:40]]. While Alvan himself plays no active role in the biblical narrative, his inclusion serves to establish the historical and tribal context of the Edomite nation. The theological significance of Alvan lies not in his individual actions but in the broader purpose of biblical genealogies: affirming God's comprehensive sovereignty over all nations, underscoring the historical veracity of Scripture, and illustrating the meticulous nature of divine record-keeping in the unfolding of His plan for humanity.
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