אֶשְׁבָּן

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew name ʼEshbân, represented by H790, is defined as vigorous. It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. The name identifies a specific individual, an Idumaean, within the Old Testament genealogies.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In the biblical narrative, H790 appears exclusively within genealogical records that trace the lineage of the early inhabitants of Edom. He is consistently listed as one of the sons of Dishon. Both occurrences, in Genesis and 1 Chronicles, place him alongside his brothers, establishing his position within this specific family line (Genesis 36:26; 1 Chronicles 1:41).

Related Words & Concepts

The identity of Eshban is fixed by his relationships with other figures mentioned in the same verses:

• H1787 Dîyshôwn: This is the name of Eshban's father, who is listed as a son of Anah and a duke of the Horites (Genesis 36:21, 1 Chronicles 1:41).
• H3506 Yithrân: Listed as a brother of Eshban, his name means excellent Genesis 36:26.
• H3763 Kᵉrân: Another brother of Eshban, listed as an aboriginal Idumaean 1 Chronicles 1:41.
• H1121 bên: The word for son or children, it is used in both verses to define Eshban's relationship to his father, Dishon (Genesis 36:26; 1 Chronicles 1:41).

Theological Significance

The significance of H790 is rooted in its contribution to the scriptural record of genealogies.

• Idumaean Lineage: Eshban is identified as an Idumaean, and his inclusion in the record helps to flesh out the family lines of the descendants of Seir in Edom Genesis 36:21.
• Genealogical Detail: His name is preserved as one of the sons of Dishon, demonstrating the Bible's emphasis on maintaining a precise historical and family record (Genesis 36:26; 1 Chronicles 1:41).
• Personal Identity: The name's probable meaning, vigorous, offers a small insight into the identity or characteristic associated with this individual.

Summary

In summary, H790 is the proper name of a specific person, Eshban. While he is not a central figure in any major biblical narrative, his inclusion in the genealogies of Genesis and 1 Chronicles is vital for documenting the lineage of the sons of Dishon. His name, meaning "vigorous," and his recorded family ties serve to complete the detailed ancestral records of the Idumaean people as presented in scripture.