### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻAlvân**, represented by `{{H5935}}`, is a personal name meaning **lofty**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name is also seen in the form **Alian** and refers to an Idumaean.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5935}}` is used exclusively within genealogical records to identify an individual. He is listed as one of the children of Shobal [[Genesis 36:23]]. This lineage is repeated in 1 Chronicles, where the name appears as **Alian**, again listed among the sons of Shobal [[1 Chronicles 1:40]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words establish the genealogical context of **ʻAlvân**:
* `{{H7732}}` **Shôwbâl** (overflowing): This is the father of Alvan. Shobal is identified as an Edomite and an Israelite in scripture [[Genesis 36:23]].
* `{{H1121}}` **bên** (a son): This word, translated as "children" or "sons", is used to establish the direct filial relationship between Shobal and his offspring, including Alvan ([[Genesis 36:23]], [[1 Chronicles 1:40]]).
* `{{H4506}}` **Mânachath** (rest): Listed as a brother of Alvan, Manahath is the name of an Edomite and a place in Moab [[Genesis 36:23]].
* `{{H5858}}` **ʻÊybâl** (bare): Another individual listed as a brother of Alvan in the same genealogical account. Ebal is also the name of a mountain in Palestine [[Genesis 36:23]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5935}}` is rooted in its role within the biblical genealogies.
* **Preservation of Lineage:** The inclusion of **ʻAlvân** and his brothers serves to document the descendants of Shobal, contributing to the detailed ancestral records found in Genesis and 1 Chronicles ([[Genesis 36:23]], [[1 Chronicles 1:40]]).
* **Idumaean Identity:** As an Idumaean name, it helps establish the specific family lines and tribal structures that are part of the broader narrative.
* **Historical Record:** The name's appearance, though brief, is a component of the scriptural effort to provide a precise and unbroken historical account of the families and nations descending from the patriarchs.
### Summary
In summary, **ʻAlvân** `{{H5935}}` is a specific personal name meaning **lofty**, found exclusively in Old Testament genealogies. Its two appearances, as **Alvan** and **Alian**, serve to identify one of the sons of Shobal within the Idumaean lineage ([[Genesis 36:23]], [[1 Chronicles 1:40]]). While not a central figure, the name's inclusion is essential for the completeness of the biblical ancestral record, illustrating the meticulous preservation of family lines in scripture.
TRV