### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʼEphlâl**, represented by `{{H654}}`, means **judge**. It is a specific personal name that appears **2 times** within a single verse of scripture. Its usage is exclusively to identify an Israelite man within a genealogy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H654}}` appears solely in the genealogies recorded in the book of Chronicles. The text states, "And Zabad begat Ephlal, and Ephlal begat Obed" [[1 Chronicles 2:37]]. This places **ʼEphlâl** as a direct link between his father, Zabad, and his son, Obed, establishing his place within a recorded lineage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The verse where **ʼEphlâl** is found contains several other key words that define his genealogical context:
* `{{H2066}}` **Zâbâd** (giver): The father of Ephlal. Zabad is identified as an Israelite name [[1 Chronicles 2:37]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to beget): This primitive root is the action verb establishing the father-son relationship between Zabad, Ephlal, and Obed. It is used throughout scripture specifically to show lineage [[1 Chronicles 2:37]].
* `{{H5744}}` **ʻÔwbêd** (serving): The son of Ephlal. As another Israelite name, Obed is a significant figure in this lineage, identified as the father of Jesse, the father of David [[Ruth 4:17]].
### Theological Significance
While **ʼEphlâl** is not a major theological figure, his placement in scripture carries significance for understanding biblical history:
* **Genealogical Link:** The primary role of `{{H654}}` is to maintain the integrity of the biblical lineage. He is a crucial link connecting his father, Zabad, to his son, Obed, ensuring the continuity of the recorded family line [[1 Chronicles 2:37]].
* **Name as Descriptor:** The name **ʼEphlâl** means **judge**. Although the text records no actions of him serving in this capacity, his name is derived from the Hebrew root `פָּלַל` and carries this meaning.
* **Connection to a Key Lineage:** Through his son Obed, Ephlal is an ancestor in the line that leads to King David. The genealogies show that Obed was the father of Jesse, and Jesse was the father of David [[Ruth 4:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H654}}` **ʼEphlâl** is a person whose importance is defined by his position rather than by any recorded deeds. He serves a singular, vital function in the Bible: to act as a generational link in a genealogy. While his name means **judge**, his textual contribution is to connect the line from his father, Zabad, to his son, Obed, thereby solidifying a key ancestral line in the Old Testament.
TRV