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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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