### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻÂshân**, represented by `{{H6228}}`, is the name of a place in Palestine, **Ashan**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible. The name itself is defined as being the same as another Hebrew word, simply identifying it as **Ashan**, a location in Palestine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6228}}` is consistently used to identify a specific city within lists of towns and territories. It is mentioned as one of the cities allotted during the distribution of land among the tribes of Israel. For instance, it is listed alongside **Libnah** `{{H3841}}` and **Ether** `{{H6281}}` in the territory of Judah [[Joshua 15:42]]. In other passages, it is included in a group of **four** `{{H702}}` **cities** `{{H5892}}` with their **villages** `{{H2691}}` [[Joshua 19:7]] and as one of **five** `{{H2568}}` **cities** `{{H5892}}` [[1 Chronicles 4:32]]. It is also designated as a Levitical city given "with her suburbs" [[1 Chronicles 6:59]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of **Ashan** as a settlement:
* `{{H5892}}` **ʻîyr** (city): This term defines **Ashan** as an established urban area. It is defined as "a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense." This word is used when listing **Ashan** among a group of **four** `{{H702}}` **cities** [[Joshua 19:7]].
* `{{H4054}}` **migrâsh** (suburb): This word describes the surrounding open lands belonging to the city. Its definition is "a suburb (i.e. open country whither flocks are driven from pasture)." The Bible notes that **Ashan** was given to the priests "with her **suburbs**" [[1 Chronicles 6:59]].
* `{{H2691}}` **châtsêr** (village): This term refers to a "hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)" or an enclosed yard. It is used to describe the settlements associated with the main cities, including the group that **Ashan** belongs to in the list of **four** cities and their **villages** [[Joshua 19:7]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H6228}}` is primarily geographical and administrative within the Old Testament record.
* **Tribal Inheritance:** **Ashan** is identified as a city within the land allotments given to the tribes of Israel. It appears in lists of cities within the territories of Judah [[Joshua 15:42]] and Simeon [[1 Chronicles 4:32]], establishing its place in the division of the promised land.
* **Levitical City:** Beyond its tribal association, **Ashan** was designated as one of the cities for the Levites. Specifically, it was given to the sons of Aaron, the priests, along with its **suburbs** `{{H4054}}`, highlighting its role as a place of residence for the priestly class [[1 Chronicles 6:59]].
* **Geographical Landmark:** The name is consistently mentioned in connection with other known towns, such as **Ether** `{{H6281}}`, **Libnah** `{{H3841}}`, **Ain** `{{H5871}}`, and **Bethshemesh** `{{H1053}}`. This places **Ashan** within a network of settlements in ancient Palestine and uses it as a marker for defining territorial boundaries ([[Joshua 15:42]], [[Joshua 19:7]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6228}}` **ʻÂshân** is not a conceptual term but the proper name of a specific location. It functions as a geographical identifier in the Old Testament, designating a **city** `{{H5892}}` in Palestine. Its scriptural importance lies in its role within the tribal allotments of Judah and Simeon and its designation as a Levitical city for the priests. The mention of its **suburbs** `{{H4054}}` and association with nearby **villages** `{{H2691}}` paints a picture of an established settlement integral to the administrative and religious landscape of ancient Israel.
TRV