### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼIbtsân**, represented by `{{H78}}`, is a proper name meaning **splendid**. It appears just **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The name identifies a specific Israelite figure who served as a judge.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical narrative for `{{H78}}` is contained entirely within the book of Judges. He is introduced as a judge from Bethlehem who ruled **Israel** `{{H3478}}` following a predecessor [[Judges 12:8]]. His story concludes with the simple statement that he **died** `{{H4191}}` and was **buried** `{{H6912}}` in his hometown of Bethlehem, marking the beginning and end of his time in leadership [[Judges 12:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
The actions and context surrounding Ibzan are defined by several key Hebrew words:
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge): This word describes Ibzan's primary role and function. He was one of the leaders who would **judge** Israel, pronouncing sentence and governing the people [[Judges 12:8]].
* `{{H310}}` **ʼachar** (after): This term establishes Ibzan's place in the succession of judges, indicating he came **after** the previous leader, continuing the line of governance over Israel [[Judges 12:8]].
* `{{H4191}}` **mûwth** (to die): This word marks the end of Ibzan's life and judgeship. The narrative succinctly states that he **died** [[Judges 12:10]], a fate common to all figures in the biblical record.
* `{{H6912}}` **qâbar** (to inter; bury): This primitive root signifies the final action associated with Ibzan's life. He was **buried** in Bethlehem, completing his story [[Judges 12:10]].
### Theological Significance
While the account of Ibzan is brief, it touches on several important themes:
* **Succession of Leadership:** Ibzan's story is part of the ongoing narrative of judges raised up to govern **Israel** `{{H3478}}`. His service "after" his predecessor highlights a pattern of divinely appointed leadership continuity [[Judges 12:8]].
* **The Brevity of Life:** The narrative starkly presents a complete life cycle in just two verses: Ibzan judged, he **died** `{{H4191}}`, and he was **buried** `{{H6912}}`. This serves as a concise reminder of the finite nature of human authority and life itself.
* **Governing the People:** As a judge, Ibzan's role was to **judge** `{{H8199}}` the people, which involved pronouncing sentence and maintaining order, a crucial function for the nation of Israel during this period.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H78}}` **ʼIbtsân** is the name of an Israelite judge whose brief record in Scripture encapsulates a complete story of leadership and mortality. Though his specific deeds are not detailed, his identity as a judge from Bethlehem who governed **Israel** `{{H3478}}` places him within the significant historical framework of his time. His entire account is a simple but profound statement of service, followed by death and burial ([[Judges 12:8]], [[Judges 12:10]]).
TRV