The Hebrew word ʼArdôwn, represented by H715, is defined as roaming; Ardon, an Israelite. This name appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire biblical text, marking it as a highly specific reference to a single individual.
In the biblical narrative, H715 is found exclusively within a genealogical record in the book of Chronicles. The name Ardon is used to identify one of the sons of Caleb, the son of Hezron. According to the record, Caleb had sons with his wives Azubah and Jerioth, and Ardon is listed as one of these children alongside his brothers Jesher and Shobab 1 Chronicles 2:18.
The context of Ardon's sole appearance places him within a specific family line, connecting him to several other key figures:
- H3612 Kâlêb (Caleb): Ardon's father, described as one of three Israelites with this name. He is the central figure in the lineage presented in 1 Chronicles 2:18.
- H1121 bên (son): This word, defined as "a son (as a builder of the family name)," establishes Ardon's relationship to Caleb and is fundamental to the entire genealogical passage.
- H2696 Chetsrôwn (Hezron): Ardon's grandfather. His name means "court-yard" and he is noted as an Israelite ancestor 1 Chronicles 2:18.
- H802 ʼishshâh (wife): This word identifies Azubah's role as the wife of Caleb and mother of his sons 1 Chronicles 2:18.
- H3205 yâlad (begat): A primitive root meaning "to bear young; causatively, to beget" and "to show lineage," this verb is used to establish the parentage of Ardon and his brothers.
The significance of H715 is rooted entirely in its function within the biblical genealogies. Its contribution is historical and structural rather than theological.
- Genealogical Marker: The name Ardon serves to document a specific individual in the lineage of the tribe of Judah, through the line of Caleb son of Hezron 1 Chronicles 2:18.
- Historical Record: By being named, Ardon contributes to the detailed and comprehensive family records that are a hallmark of the book of Chronicles, preserving ancestral identity.
- Familial Context: The mention of Ardon is tied directly to his father, Caleb H3612, and his brothers, solidifying their place within the larger family structure descending from Hezron H2696.
In summary, ʼArdôwn H715 is a proper name for an Israelite whose only mention is in a list of Caleb's descendants. While the name itself means "roaming," its function in scripture is not to convey a thematic idea but to precisely identify an individual. Its importance lies in its contribution to the meticulous genealogical record of Israel, ensuring that Ardon's place in the lineage of Caleb and Hezron is preserved.
TRV